Tragedy in Rivers: Late-Night Fire Claims Two Children, Dozens Left Homeless
Story: written by Zara November 18,2025
A devastating late-night fire has claimed the lives of two children and rendered several families homeless in Rumuola, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The inferno, which erupted around 10 p.m. on Sunday, tore through a row of makeshift homes behind Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic in Port Harcourt. At least 27 families were displaced as the flames consumed the wooden structures.
According to residents, the fire began in the room of a woman who had been cooking before stepping out briefly to purchase additional ingredients. She reportedly locked her door, leaving her four children inside. While two of the children were awake, the younger ones were asleep when the fire ignited.
A resident, Edidiong, who witnessed the incident, described the moment as tragic and overwhelming.
“The fire started from the woman’s room. She went out while her stove was still lit. By the time she returned, everything was already burning. The older children tried to rescue their younger siblings but were forced out by the intense heat. Sadly, the two younger ones couldn’t make it out,” he recounted.
The entire settlement was razed, leaving many without shelter or belongings.
Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, stated that the deceased children were aged nine and five. She added that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the fire, and the mother has been invited for questioning as part of the inquiry.
