Governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State, Bimbo Adekanmbi, on Tuesday visited Bode Market, Ibadan, to commiserate with traders whose shops and goods were destroyed in the recent fire incident, becoming one of the first prominent political figures to identify with the victims.
Adekanmbi, who toured the affected sections of the market alongside market leaders, assessed the extent of the damage and announced a donation of ₦2.5 million to provide immediate relief for traders who suffered losses in the inferno.
Addressing the victims, he expressed sadness over the incident, describing the fire as a painful setback for hundreds of families whose livelihoods depend on the market.
“I am deeply saddened by the magnitude of this tragedy. My heart goes out to every trader who lost goods, investments, and means of livelihood in this unfortunate incident,” he said.
“No amount of money can completely compensate for the losses suffered, but I hope this modest support will provide some immediate relief and reassure you that you are not alone in this difficult period.”
The APM governorship hopeful urged the affected traders not to lose hope, assuring them that they would overcome the challenge with collective support.
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He also called on the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government, corporate organisations, financial institutions, philanthropists, and other well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the victims.
“This is beyond politics. These are hardworking men and women whose businesses have been devastated overnight. They need urgent support to rebuild their lives. I appeal to governments at all levels, private organisations and compassionate Nigerians to join hands in providing relief for the victims,” Adekanmbi said.
He stressed that rebuilding the market and restoring the economic activities of affected traders would require a coordinated response from both the public and private sectors.
“Our markets are critical to the state’s economy. Helping these traders get back on their feet is not just about compassion; it is about protecting livelihoods and sustaining economic activities. Together, we can help them recover stronger,” he added.
Market leaders and some of the affected traders appreciated Adekanmbi for the visit and the financial support, describing the gesture as timely and encouraging.
The recent fire incident destroyed several shops and goods worth millions of naira, leaving many traders counting their losses and appealing for assistance to rebuild their businesses.
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