Alhaji Umar-Faruk, one of the sons of late Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji AbdulAzeez Arisekola Alao, has commiserated with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, the people of Oyo and the victims of last Saturday’s inferno that razed Akesan market in the ancient town.
The young Arisekola, who was commissioner for youth and sports, said he was saddened by the development as he knows what it means to lose what is dear to someone’s heart.
According to Arisekola, who was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for Ibadan North state constituency 1 seat in March 9, 2019 election, all the affected traders should remain strong.
“It is so sad that the unfortunate incident occurred. I know, for a fact, that many people have something to do with the ancient market.
“There are over a thousand affected persons. There are over a thousand shops. I know there are thousands of people who are dependent on the victims of the inferno. For them to start all over again, there is a great need for all of us to rally round them. Yes, they need financial support. What they need most, especially at this point, is emotional support.
“Government and those who are privileged need to come to the traders’ rescue. Apart from rebuilding the market, there is need for financial assistance for the affected persons,” he said.
To prevent future occurrence, the 37-year old preferred, there is need for government to strengthen the state fire service. “This is just as government should ensure preventive measures like fire extinguishers are provided in the market. Traders also should ensure they are not careless with electricity and anything that can ignite fire. There is also the need for consistent enlightenment programme, especially during harmattan season, by government at all levels,” he added.
