By: Daure David
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed gratitude to God that no life was lost in Monday’s fire outbreak that affected a section of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex in Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara made the statement on Tuesday during an on-the-spot inspection of the fire-damaged building. He described the incident as unfortunate but reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the safety and welfare of the state’s workforce.
“It is really unfortunate, but we give God all the glory that no life was lost,” the governor said. He noted that the most affected part of the Secretariat was the creche section, which caters to the children of civil servants.
The governor used the opportunity to announce the immediate reactivation of the long-standing plan to renovate and modernize the State Secretariat.
“What is very important is that the renovation and refurbishing of this very foremost State Secretariat has been on the drawing board. With this particular incident, there won’t be any reason not to proceed,” he stated.
Governor Fubara assured that his administration would move swiftly to commence the process. “Whatever it will require, this government will immediately swing into action,” he added, while appreciating the civil servants for their continued support.
He also highlighted the importance of recent investments made by his administration in strengthening the state’s emergency response systems, particularly the refurbishment of the Fire Service.
“Before the emergency rule, our administration had invested in the refurbishment of the fire service. Imagine what would have happened if we didn’t have a functional and responsive fire service on ground,” he remarked.
Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to executing projects that directly benefit the people of Rivers State and improve public infrastructure.
“We will continue to do things that will uplift our people and make them happy,” he affirmed.
The cause of the fire is yet to be officially determined, but investigations are expected to follow. Meanwhile, security and safety measures at the Secretariat Complex are being reviewed to prevent a recurrence.
