Fubara Says Rivers Secretariat Fire Is “A Wake-Up Call To Fast-Track Planned Renovation”

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has described the recent fire outbreak at the state secretariat complex in Port Harcourt as an unfortunate incident and a wake-up call to expedite plans for the renovation of the facility.

The fire, which occurred on Monday evening, affected a section of the complex that serves as a creche for babies of civil servants. Fubara, who visited the scene on Tuesday morning to assess the extent of the damage, expressed relief that no lives were lost and that the fire was contained before spreading to other parts of the building.

“I came here this morning to see for myself what happened yesterday. It’s really unfortunate, but we give God all the glory that no life was lost and the damage was only in one section,” the governor said.

Fubara noted that his administration had already been considering a comprehensive renovation of the state secretariat and said the incident underscored the need to fast-track the process.

“We’ve been talking about the renovation of our foremost secretariat. With this particular incident, there should be no further delay. Whatever is required by this government to commence that process, we will immediately swing into action,” he said.

The governor commended the state fire service for its prompt intervention, saying the quick response prevented what could have been a more serious disaster.

He added that previous investments made by his administration in equipping the fire service stations across the state proved crucial in managing the situation.

“Before the emergency rule, we took our time to invest in the fire service. I wonder what would have happened if we didn’t have a formidable and functional fire service,” Fubara said.

He also thanked civil servants for their dedication and continued support, pledging that his administration would sustain efforts aimed at improving their welfare and promoting the well-being of all residents of Rivers State.

“We’ll continue to do those things that will uplift Rivers people and make them happy,” the governor added.