Oyo Governorship Aspirant Adekanmbi Gives N2.5m to Ibadan Market Fire Victims

Bimbo Adekanmbi, the Allied People’s Movement (APM) governorship candidate in Oyo State, on Friday, extended his condolences and financial support to traders impacted by a recent fire at Ibadan’s well-known Bode Market in Ibadan South West Local Government Area. During his visit to the site to evaluate the extent of the damage, Adekanmbi presented N2.5 million to the affected individuals.

The gubernatorial aspirant characterized the incident as a devastating blow for numerous families and entrepreneurs. He conveyed his sorrow regarding the extensive loss of merchandise and sources of income caused by the blaze, encouraging those affected to maintain their optimism despite the tragic event. Earlier reports, including one from The PUNCH, detailed how the early morning inferno ravaged numerous shops and goods valued at millions of naira, with the herbal section of the market particularly hard-hit.

An eyewitness, who identified herself simply as Serifat, informed 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 stands as one of Ibadan metropolis's largest trading hubs, widely recognized for its trade in herbs, animal skins, and other traditional products, serving merchants from across the South-West and other regions of Nigeria.

It is worth recalling that a similar disaster occurred in September 2024, when over 40 shops in the herbal section of the popular Oranyan market, located in Ibadan North East Local Government Area of the state, were completely razed. While no lives were lost in that incident, it resulted in the destruction of multimillion naira property and herbal goods.

Adekanmbi stated that “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.” He further emphasized that “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.” The APM candidate urged “well-meaning individuals to extend assistance to the victims to enable them to rebuild their businesses and restore their means of livelihood.” He concluded by offering prayers for the traders, expressing his hope for their swift recovery from their losses and a strong return to their businesses.

The traders who received the financial assistance expressed their gratitude to Adekanmbi for standing with them during such a challenging period, describing his visit and support as both timely and encouraging.