The Oyo State House of Assembly has raised concerns over the devastating fire incident that occurred earlier today at Ashamu Market, Kosobo, in Oyo East Local Government, calling for immediate intervention and long-term preventive measures.
Presenting the matter under Urgent Public Importance, Hon. Olorunpoto Rahaman informed the House that the inferno, which started in the early hours of the day, destroyed goods and properties worth millions of naira, leaving traders and business owners in distress.
While commending the swift response of the Oyo State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service, which helped contain the fire, Hon. Rahaman emphasized the need for proactive steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Following deliberations, the House proposed several resolutions, including:
1. Commendation for Fire Services: The House lauded the prompt intervention of the Oyo State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service, urging them to maintain their commitment to protecting lives and property.
2. Relief and Support for Affected Traders: The Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYSEMA) was directed to assess the extent of the damage and provide immediate relief materials and financial assistance to affected traders.
3. Local Government Intervention: The Oyo East Local Government Authority was urged to support affected traders and facilitate the restoration of normal business activities in the market.
4. Investigation and Fire Prevention Measures: The Oyo State Fire Service and the Ministry of Environment were tasked with investigating the cause of the fire and recommending measures to prevent future incidents.
5. Fire Safety Programs: The House called on the Oyo East Local Government, in collaboration with the Oyo State Government, to implement fire safety initiatives in major markets, including the installation of firefighting equipment, regular fire drills, and sensitization programs for traders.
6. Establishment of Fire Stations in Markets: The House urged the state government to prioritize the establishment of well-equipped fire stations in major markets across the state, including Ashamu Market, Kosobo, to ensure rapid emergency response.
The House expressed solidarity with the affected traders and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring better safety measures in markets across the state.
