Oyo begins assessment of Bode Market fire damage, promises relief

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Government has commenced an assessment of the damage caused by the recent fire outbreak at Bode Market in Ibadan South West Local Government Area, assuring affected traders that relief measures will be provided after the exercise.

Leading a government delegation to the market on Monday, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal conveyed Governor Seyi Makinde’s sympathy to victims and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting those who suffered losses in the incident.

Lawal, who was received by the Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government, Kehinde Akande, alongside market leaders, described Bode Market as a major commercial centre that contributes significantly to the economy of both the local government area and the state.

The deputy governor directed that a comprehensive enumeration of all affected shops be completed within seven days to enable the government to determine an appropriate intervention and relief package for victims. He stressed that the exercise must be transparent and inclusive, urging the local government and market leadership to ensure that no affected trader is left out.

Responding, Akande commended the deputy governor for the prompt visit and assured the state government that the council would work closely with the Baba Loja, Iya Loja and other market stakeholders to complete the enumeration within the stipulated timeframe.

Market leaders expressed appreciation for the government’s swift response and appealed for urgent financial and material assistance to help traders rebuild their businesses. They also called for improved fire safety measures to reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future.

The Babaloja General of Oyo State, Yekini Abass Oladapo, also appealed to the state government to provide additional support for traders who lost goods and property in the fire, noting that many depended on the market for their livelihoods.

After the meeting, Lawal inspected the sections of the market affected by the fire and interacted with traders whose shops were destroyed. Officials of the Oyo State Emergency Management Agency and the Oyo State Ministry of Trade and Investment also participated in the assessment to evaluate the extent of the damage and support the government’s response.