The federal lawmaker representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DON), has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the fire outbreak that razed several shops at Bodija Market in Ibadan, Oyo State, with goods reportedly destroyed in the inferno.
The lawmaker also expressed sympathy with the affected traders over the losses suffered, describing the incident as a painful setback for business owners whose livelihoods have been disrupted by the disaster.
In a press release issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Akinwale Bodija, Hon. Oyekunle called for a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the fire and identify measures necessary to prevent a recurrence.
He assured the affected traders of his commitment to supporting efforts towards finding a lasting solution to the recurring threat of fire incidents in markets and other commercial centres.
The lawmaker stressed the need for proactive measures and effective safety arrangements to protect traders, their investments and sources of livelihood, noting that preventing such disasters requires collective responsibility and sustained attention to market safety.
He also appealed to traders to prioritise safety in their places of business by observing appropriate precautions and ensuring that necessary safety measures are in place to minimise the risk of fire outbreaks.
According to him, concerted efforts are required from relevant authorities, market leaders and traders to strengthen preventive measures and ensure that incidents capable of causing significant economic losses are avoided.
Hon. Oyekunle reiterated the importance of putting lasting measures in place to safeguard businesses and prevent a recurrence of the unfortunate incident, while extending his heartfelt sympathy to all traders affected by the Bodija Market inferno.
He urged the relevant authorities to treat the incident with the urgency it deserves and ensure that the findings of the investigation inform practical steps towards improving fire prevention and emergency response in markets across the constituency.
