ONDO STATE GOVERNMENT DELEGATION VISITS RUFUS GIWA POLYTECHNIC TO ASSESS DAMAGE FOLLOWING FIRE INCIDENT
A delegation from the Ondo State Government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s Special Assistant on Emergency Response, Hon. (Prince) Wellington Oriade Adebawo, visited Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, to assess the damage caused by a fire incident that occurred on August 30, 2025.
The delegation, which included the Director of Fire Department, Ondo State Ministry of Works, Engr. Folorunso Samuel, and other team members of the Special Assistant, was received by the Rector of the institution, Dr. Simon Adegun, alongside other top officials of the school management on their arrival to the school on Sunday August 31, 2025.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the fire disaster was caused by high voltage electricity, which started from the shops beside the female hall of residence. The inferno razed the shops, destroying all goods and items, before extending to the roofs of the hostel.
The prompt response of the school’s management and the fire department prevented further damage. The fire incident consequently displaced scores of female students.
Hon. Adebawo reiterated the commitment of Governor Aiyedatiwa to enhancing emergency response in the state. “This visit is a precursor to the provision of support to the affected students and the institution. The Ondo State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is always willing to provide relief in the event of disaster like this and that is why we are here to assess the damage and provide support to the affected students and the institution,” he said.
The Special Assistant on Emergency Response further stated that the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency (ODSEMA) under the supervision of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, mni, always rises to the occasion whenever disaster happens in the state.
The Rector, Dr. Simon Adegun, appreciated the swift response of the state government to the incident. In his words, “We are grateful for the concern shown by the governor and his team. This visit demonstrates the commitment of Governor Aiyedatiwa to the welfare and safety of our students and institution.”
Other top officials of the school management, including the Acting Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Oloye; Dean of Students’ Affairs, Mr. Olu Ibrahim; and Director of Students’ Affairs, Mr. Bayo Elebute, were also present. Representatives of the Students’ Union were equally in attendance.
