Delta State Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, has carried out an on-the-spot assessment of the field office of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in Owa-Oyibu, Ika North East Local Government Area, following a devastating fire outbreak that destroyed certificates, official records and other critical documents.
The Commissioner was received by the Chief Inspector of Education (CIE) for the area, Mrs. Josephine Ukpere, who described the incident as a painful setback to grassroots education administration and record-keeping.
Mrs. Ukpere explained that while the exact cause of the fire was yet to be determined, preliminary suspicion pointed to indiscriminate bush burning around the facility, which may have escalated and engulfed the office.
She conducted the Commissioner and his entourage around the affected premises to assess the level of destruction.
According to her, vital certificates, official records and other valuable documents were completely lost to the inferno, although no casualty was recorded.
Reacting, Dr. Ashibogwu thanked God that no life was lost and commended staff of the Ministry for their prompt efforts in salvaging available items.
He, however, directed that the incident be formally reported to the Police for a thorough investigation to establish the true cause of the fire and prevent future occurrences.
The Commissioner warned members of the public against indiscriminate bush burning, describing it as a dangerous practice that poses serious threats to lives, public infrastructure and the environment.
He urged community leaders and residents to remain vigilant and partner with government in safeguarding public facilities.
Dr. Ashibogwu assured staff of the Ministry that the state government would fully assess the situation and take necessary steps to restore operations at the affected field office, in line with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to protecting public assets and strengthening the education sector.
He also reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to enhance safety measures across its offices statewide, encouraging staff to remain steadfast despite the setback.
