The Governorship candidate of Allied People’s Movement in Oyo State, Bimbo Adekanmbi, on Friday, sympathised with the traders affected by fire outbreak at the popular Bode Market in Ibadan South West Local Government Area of the state.
Adekanmbi donating N2.5 million to the victims.
The guber hopeful, who visited the market to assess the extent of damage, described the incident as a painful loss for many families and business owners.
He further expressed sadness over the destruction of goods and means of livelihood caused by the inferno, urging the victims to remain hopeful despite the unfortunate incident.
The PUNCH had earlier reported that the early morning inferno destroyed many shops and goods worth millions of naira, especially at herbal section at the market.
An eyewitness, simply identified herself as Serifat, told our correspondent that, “The blaze caused extensive damage, leaving many traders counting their losses. We have not known the cause of this fire incident.”
Bode Market is one of the largest markets in Ibadan metropolis, and is widely known as a major trading hub for herbs, animal skins and other traditional products.
It serves traders from across the South-West and other parts of Nigeria.
It will also be recalled that similar incident had, in September, 2024, completely razed to the ground over 40 shops at a popular Oranyan market, herbal section, in Ibadan North East Local Government Area of the state.
Though no life was lost, the incident destroyed multimillion naira property and herbs.
APM candidate said, “The donation of N2.5 million to the affected traders is to cushion the effect of devastating a loss.
“The gesture is intended to provide immediate relief and demonstrate solidarity with those affected.
“The fire disaster has further highlighted the need for improved safety measures in markets across the state, including better fire prevention facilities and emergency response systems.
“I, therefore, call on well-meaning individuals to extend assistance to the victims to enable them to rebuild their businesses and restore their means of livelihood.”
APM candidate prayed for the affected traders, expressing hope that they would recover from the losses and return to their businesses stronger.
The traders who received the donation appreciated Adekanmbi for identifying with them during the difficult period, describing his visit and support as timely and encouraging.
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