What started as a normal Friday at the Federal High Court in Abuja quickly turned into chaos when a sudden fire alarm sent judges, lawyers, and court workers scrambling for safety — only to later discover it was a fire drill.

Judges Peter Lifu and James Omotosho were in the middle of delivering judgments when the loud alarm echoed through the court complex. The situation intensified when an announcement over the public address system ordered everyone to immediately evacuate the building and avoid using the elevators.

Panic set in. Lawyers abandoned their law books, journalists dropped their equipment, and court staff rushed to the staircases, unsure of where the supposed fire was coming from. Outside, a crowd gathered, scanning the building for smoke or flames.

Moments later, firefighters led by CSF Innocent Itodo arrived — not to battle an inferno, but to reveal that it was all part of a fire simulation exercise.

“This is not a prank,” Itodo explained. “We are approaching the ember months when fire incidents are more common. This drill is to prepare everyone to respond quickly and safely in case of a real emergency.”

The firefighters used the opportunity to teach vital safety tips: never use elevators during a fire, keep to the right on staircases so emergency responders can pass, avoid running to prevent stampedes, and never go back for personal belongings.

While some court workers criticised the surprise drill as “too sudden” and “stressful,” others admitted it was a wake-up call. “It scared us, but it also showed how unprepared we might be in a real emergency,” one staff member said.

The exercise may have caused a few racing hearts, but it left a lasting message — in a fire, seconds matter, and preparation can save lives.