As Bonny Kingdom celebrates the 61st birthday of His Majesty, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, Edward I, CON, DSSRS, JP, Perekule XI, the Executive and Legislative arms of Bonny Local Government have presented what many regard as a lasting birthday gift to him in commemoration of the auspicious occasion.
This is the passage and assent to the Bonny LGA Fire Station, Safety and Other Related Matters Bye-Law No. 1 of 2026. on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 9 and 10, 2026 by the Bonny Legislative Council and Chairman of Bonny LGA.
The landmark legislation not fulfils the Executive and Legislative pledge but also provides the legal framework for the operation, maintenance and sustainability of the Bonny Fire Station.
The development comes at a time when the Kingdom is reflecting on six decades of the life and three decades of the reign of the Amanyanabo, whose leadership has been credited with driving institutional growth and development across Bonny.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at the LG Council Secretariat, the Leader of the 10th Bonny Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Jumbo, revealed that the bill was transmitted to the Legislature by the Council Chairman as an Executive Bill.
According to him, the importance of the proposed law necessitated swift legislative action.
“The Fire Station Bill was transmitted to the Legislative Assembly by the Executive Arm as an Executive Bill.”
“Given its significance to public safety and emergency response in Bonny Local Government Area, the Assembly gave it accelerated consideration.”
Jumbo explained that despite the speedy consideration, the Assembly ensured that due legislative processes were followed.
“The bill passed through all the required legislative stages, including a public hearing where residents, stakeholders and community representatives made valuable contributions.”
He added that the final version of the legislation reflected the aspirations of the people.
“Inputs received during the public hearing were incorporated into the final legislation to ensure that the law truly represents the collective interests and expectations of the people of Bonny.”
Assenting to the bill, Chairman of Bonny LGA, Abinye Pepple described the moment as a historic milestone for the council and the entire kingdom.
“Today marks a significant milestone in the history of Bonny Local Government Area and the realization of a vision I have nurtured for many years to establish a functional and sustainable fire service system for our people.”
The Chairman recalled that the fire station was originally built in 2021 while he served as the member representing Bonny Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“This facility was constructed in 2021 as a constituency project.”
“What we have done today is to provide the legal foundation that will guarantee its operation, maintenance and sustainability for generations to come.”
Pepple noted that the legislation would strengthen emergency preparedness and improve protection of lives and property.
“With this law in place, Bonny is better positioned to respond to emergencies, reduce response times during fire incidents and enhance the safety of our people and their investments.”
The Bonny LG boss also announced the official commissioning date for the facility.
“I am pleased to announce that the Bonny Fire Station will be officially commissioned on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.”
He commended members of the 10th Bonny Legislative Assembly for their support in ensuring the passage of the bill.
“I sincerely appreciate the Leader and members of the Legislative Assembly for their cooperation, commitment and patriotism in ensuring the successful passage of this important legislation.”
The Chairman, however, reminded residents that safety begins with personal responsibility.
“While the Fire Station stands ready to respond to emergencies, every resident must remain vigilant and take deliberate steps to prevent fire outbreaks in homes, businesses and public spaces.”
As Bonny Kingdom marks the 61st birthday of its revered monarch, the passage of the Fire Station Bye-Law is being viewed as more than a legislative achievement.
It is a practical investment in public safety and a symbolic contribution to the vision of a modern, secure and prosperous Bonny Kingdom championed under the reign of King Edward I.