Former vice-president Aliu Mahama has expressed his sympathies with former President Jerry John Rawlings and members of his family. The Ridge residence of the former first family was razed down by fire in the early hours of Sunday. A statement released on Monday and signed by Abdul-Wahab Alhassana, aide to the former vice president Alhaji Mahama, described the incident as shocking. “I have learnt with shock and [I am] devastated by the unfortunate news of the fire outbreak in the official residence of the former first family during the early hours of Sunday. I can only express my sympathies and pray that such a disaster never recurs,” it said. “I also hope that the family remains strong throughout this period.” Meanwhile, Mr Rawlings is said to have returned to the residence after spending the night at an undisclosed location. Source: Myjoyonline.com/Ghana