Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken a significant step to alleviate the suffering of traders affected by the recent fire at Oluku Market. On Wednesday, he presented relief materials to the victims, which were provided by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EDOSEMA). The governor assured the traders that the state government would not abandon them and promised to rebuild the market to a modern standard.
During the presentation, Governor Okpebholo expressed his empathy for the traders who lost their goods and shops in the fire. He emphasized that the relief materials were a demonstration of the government's care and concern for their well-being. The governor also acknowledged that the items might not be enough to compensate for their losses but stressed that it was better to show some concern than none at all.
Governor Okpebholo outlined his vision for the reconstruction of the market, promising that it would be built with concrete to prevent future disasters. He stated that the new market would be a place where traders could be proud to do business, with their goods and shops safe from harm. The governor also disclosed that he had briefed President Bola Tinubu on the fire, and the President had directed that the affected shops be rebuilt.
The governor further assured the traders that the state government would provide additional support to help them recover from the disaster. However, he cautioned them to manage their expectations, noting that the assistance might not be commensurate with their losses. Governor Okpebholo also urged residents to pray for President Tinubu, citing the positive impact of the President's directives on the state's development.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of EDOSEMA, Mr. Jerry Idahosa, emphasized the importance of monitoring the recovery of the affected traders. He urged the beneficiaries to use the relief materials wisely and warned the public against scooping fuel from fallen or leaking tankers, citing the dangers of the practice.
Some of the traders expressed their gratitude to Governor Okpebholo and other stakeholders for providing relief to them. They noted that the materials would help alleviate their hardship and restore some hope after the disaster. One of the traders, Mrs. Ann Ogbowman, who lost everything in the fire, thanked the governor and the agencies for their support.
The relief efforts by Governor Okpebholo and the agencies have brought some solace to the traders affected by the fire. The governor's promise to rebuild the market to a modern standard has also raised hopes that the traders will soon have a safe and conducive place to do business. The state government's efforts to support the victims have been commended by many, who see it as a demonstration of its commitment to the well-being of its citizens.
Key points
- Governor Okpebholo provides relief materials to Oluku Market fire victims.
- The governor promises to rebuild the market to a modern standard.
- The state government assures traders of additional support to help them recover from the disaster.
