Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has ordered an investigation into the remote causes of the fire that destroyed parts of Sabo Market in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
Aiyedatiwa’s visit to the market was contained in a statement issued by Ebenezer Adeniyan, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, on Tuesday in Akure.
The fire occurred on August 12, destroying several shops and goods belonging to traders, resulting in significant financial losses.
Aiyedatiwa said the visit was to inspect the extent of the damage and sympathise with the affected traders.
The governor expressed relief that no life was lost in the incident, while commending firefighters and residents for their efforts in preventing the fire from spreading further.
“I acknowledge and thank all our firefighters for their quick response to ensure that this fire did not escalate more than this.
“A lot of valuables have been lost but no life was lost. Our men responded with the support of the people in the neighbourhood to ensure that the fire was put off,” he stated.
Aiyedatiwa said the State Emergency Management Agency had visited the market to assess and document the damage and identify the affected traders.
He assured the victims that the government would provide support after the assessment was completed.
“The emergency agency of the state government has been here to take note and account of all that have been destroyed and those who are affected. They are doing their calculation; in due time, they will respond to support the people,” he said.
The governor also promised to address the water shortage that affected efforts to put out the fire.
He directed the Ministry of Water Resources, Hygiene and Sanitation to identify suitable locations for boreholes in the area.
“I’m promising you today, the Ministry of Water Resources, Hygiene and Sanitation will visit and look at locations where they have to sink the boreholes, and that will be approved immediately. Not just for firefighting but also for your use,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He urged traders and residents to take precautions against fire outbreaks by switching off electrical appliances and other potential sources of fire before leaving their shops or going to bed.
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