The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Oyo State and Aare Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, FCA, has commiserated with traders and families affected by the devastating fire outbreak at the popular Oranyan Market in Ibadan. Adegoke described the incident as a painful tragedy, noting that the destruction of shops and goods had inflicted serious economic hardship on hardworking traders who depend on their businesses for their livelihoods.
Expressing sympathy with the victims, Adegoke said he could feel their pains, stressing that the disaster represented more than the loss of goods and shops but the destruction of years of savings, investments and family livelihoods. He urged the affected traders not to lose hope, assuring them that the setback, though painful, could be overcome with collective support and intervention from government and well-meaning Nigerians.
The ADC candidate said the recurring cases of market fires in Ibadan and other parts of Oyo State should prompt authorities to adopt stronger preventive measures. He pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would prioritise the development of safer and more resilient markets, with improved fire prevention infrastructure, accessible emergency routes, functional firefighting facilities, regular safety inspections and better emergency response mechanisms.
Adegoke also called on individuals, corporate organisations, philanthropists and non-governmental organisations to come to the immediate assistance of the affected traders. He said the victims needed more than sympathy, urging well-meaning Nigerians and organisations to provide financial, material and business-recovery support to enable the traders rebuild their livelihoods and return to business as quickly as possible.
He commended emergency responders and other stakeholders involved in efforts to contain the inferno, while calling for a proper assessment of the losses and investigation into the cause of the fire. Adegoke prayed for strength and comfort for the victims and their families, reiterating his commitment to a governance approach that protects lives, livelihoods and investments across Oyo State.
