APM flagbearer visits Bode Market, sympathises with affected traders and calls for improved fire safety measures across Oyo markets.
The governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) in Oyo State, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, has donated N2.5 million to traders affected by the recent fire outbreak at the popular Bode Market in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.
Adekanmbi made the donation on Friday during a visit to the market to assess the level of destruction caused by the inferno, which razzed several shops and destroyed goods worth millions of naira.
Describing the incident as a painful setback for many families and business owners, the APM governorship hopeful expressed sympathy with the victims and urged them not to lose hope despite the enormous losses.
An eyewitness, who identified herself as Serifat, said the cause of the fire had yet to be determined, noting that the blaze caused extensive damage and left many traders counting their losses.
Bode Market is one of Ibadan’s largest commercial centres, serving as a major trading hub for herbs, animal skins, and other traditional products, attracting traders from across the South-West and other parts of Nigeria.
Speaking during the visit, Adekanmbi said the N2.5 million donation was aimed at cushioning the impact of the disaster and demonstrating solidarity with the affected traders.
“The donation is to provide immediate relief to the victims and encourage them as they begin the process of rebuilding their businesses,” he said.
He also called for improved fire prevention facilities and emergency response systems in markets across Oyo State to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Adekanmbi appealed to well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations and other stakeholders to support the affected traders in restoring their means of livelihood.
The beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the donation, describing Adekanmbi’s visit and financial support as timely and encouraging during a difficult period.