The Okanlomo Oodua and Bada Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, has expressed profound sorrow over the devastating fire outbreak that ravaged the historic Bode Herbal Market in Molete, Ibadan, describing the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that has thrown many hardworking traders into grief and uncertainty.
In a statement issued on Friday, Chief Sanusi said he received the news of the inferno with deep sadness, noting that the market has for decades served as a major commercial hub and a source of livelihood for countless families within and beyond Ibadan.
“My heart bleeds for every trader who woke up to discover that years of hard work, investments and dreams had been reduced to ashes. No words can adequately console those who have lost their goods, means of livelihood and sources of income in this unfortunate incident.
“I stand in solidarity with every victim and pray that Almighty God grants them the strength, courage and grace to overcome this painful moment. As a people, we must not abandon them in their hour of need.”
Chief Sanusi called on the Oyo State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYSEMA), corporate organisations, philanthropists and compassionate Nigerians to urgently mobilise relief materials and financial support for the affected traders to help them rebuild their businesses and restore hope.
He also urged the relevant authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire while strengthening fire prevention and emergency response mechanisms across markets in the state through improved safety awareness, regular inspections and the provision of modern firefighting facilities.
According to him, protecting lives and preserving the means of livelihood of citizens must remain a collective responsibility.
Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi prayed that such a devastating incident would never occur again in Ibadan or any part of Oyo State and asked Almighty God to comfort all those affected and grant them restoration beyond their losses.
