Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed deep sympathy with victims of the devastating fire incident that occurred on Friday at Baybridge in the Kpansia area of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, visited the scene of the incident on Saturday to assess firsthand the extent of damage caused by the fire and to reassure affected residents of the government’s support during the difficult period.
The inspection tour underscored the state government’s concern over the unfortunate incident, which destroyed several structures and valuable property, leaving many residents counting their losses.
Governor Diri led a high-powered delegation comprising officials from key government agencies and security institutions. Among those who accompanied the deputy governor on the visit were the Comptroller of the Federal Fire Service in Bayelsa State, Mr. Diton Amos, and the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Daniel Iyamah, alongside other government officials.
During the visit, the delegation inspected affected buildings and interacted with some of the victims, many of whom narrated their experiences and the extent of losses suffered as a result of the fire outbreak.
Speaking to journalists shortly after conducting an on-the-spot assessment of the damaged structures, the governor described the incident as unfortunate and painful, particularly considering the destruction of homes, businesses, and personal belongings.
Despite the scale of the destruction, Diri expressed gratitude that no life was lost in the incident, noting that the preservation of human lives remained the most important consideration.
“It is indeed a very unfortunate incident. We sympathise with all those affected by this fire disaster. While properties and valuables may have been destroyed, we thank God that no life was lost. Human life is priceless, and we are grateful that everyone was safely evacuated,” he said.
The governor assured victims that the state government would not abandon them in their moment of distress. He stated that relevant agencies would be directed to conduct a thorough assessment of the losses with a view to determining the necessary interventions and support that could be provided to affected families and business owners.
According to him, the government remains committed to protecting the welfare of citizens and responding promptly to emergencies whenever they occur.
Diri also commended emergency responders, including personnel of the Federal Fire Service, security agencies, and members of the community who assisted in containing the fire and preventing it from spreading to adjoining buildings.
He noted that their swift response helped minimize the impact of the disaster and contributed significantly to ensuring that no casualties were recorded.
The governor further stressed the need for residents to adhere strictly to fire safety regulations and precautionary measures, particularly in densely populated residential and commercial areas.
He urged property owners and business operators to install fire prevention equipment where necessary and ensure proper handling of electrical installations and other potential fire hazards.
Officials present during the inspection revealed that preliminary investigations into the cause of the fire were ongoing. Authorities are expected to determine the exact circumstances that led to the outbreak and recommend measures to prevent future occurrences.
Residents of the area who witnessed the incident described the fire as intense, saying flames spread rapidly before emergency responders arrived at the scene. Many expressed relief that no fatalities were recorded despite the magnitude of the destruction.
Victims who spoke during the governor’s visit appealed for assistance, noting that they had lost significant investments and personal belongings in the inferno.
The state government assured them that their concerns would be documented and that relevant agencies would work towards providing appropriate support where possible.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness, fire safety awareness, and rapid response mechanisms in urban communities.
As affected residents begin the difficult process of rebuilding their lives, Governor Diri reiterated the government’s commitment to standing with them and ensuring that necessary measures are taken to mitigate the effects of the disaster.
The visit by the governor and top government officials was seen by many residents as a demonstration of solidarity with victims and a reaffirmation of the administration’s commitment to the welfare and safety of the people of Bayelsa State.
