The gubernatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Oloye Adegboyega Toafeek Adegoke FCA, on Friday paid a sympathy visit to traders and victims affected by the recent fire outbreak at Bode Market in Ibadan, offering words of comfort and assuring them of his support during the difficult period.
Speaking during the visit, Adegoke expressed deep sadness over the unfortunate incident, describing the fire as a painful loss to hardworking traders whose means of livelihood were destroyed. He noted that Bode Market is located in Ibadan South-West Local Government, making the tragedy a personal concern to him as an Ibadan son.
He said the purpose of the visit was to identify with the victims, share in their grief, and assess the extent of the damage with a view to providing necessary support.
As the Head of Abosé Compound, Gege, in Ibadan South-West Local Government, Adegoke’s presence at the scene resonated deeply with residents and traders, who viewed his visit as a demonstration of compassion and solidarity beyond political considerations.
His visit was widely regarded as a reflection of his enduring commitment to the welfare of Ibadanland and the people of Oyo State.
Accompanying him were the Oyo State Chairman-Elect of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), other party leaders, and members of Team SOLUTIONS, all of whom commiserated with the affected traders and encouraged them to remain hopeful despite the devastating losses.
Speaking in unison were the heads of the market and the host community, expressing appreciation to all individuals and organizations that had shown concern following the fire incident. However they disclosed that the affected shops would be rebuilt through a collective effort by the market and the community, noting that they were not requesting government intervention for the reconstruction. However, they welcomed any form of support from the government, corporate organizations, philanthropists, and well-meaning individuals to assist the affected traders in replacing their lost goods and restoring their livelihoods.
Adegoke concluded by pledging to explore appropriate ways of supporting the victims, expressing optimism that, with collective efforts and God’s grace, the traders would recover from the unfortunate incident and rebuild their businesses.
