Calls for coordinated support, safer markets, and urgent relief for affected business owners
Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, popularly known as **Odidiomo**, has paid an on-the-spot visit to Oranyan Market in Ibadan following the fire incident that destroyed shops, goods, and sources of livelihood for many traders.
The Oyo South Senatorial candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) visited the market to assess the situation firsthand, identify with affected traders, and offer support to individuals and families whose businesses were affected by the incident.
The fire was reported to have started late on Sunday night and affected sections of the popular market in Ibadan North-East Local Government Area. Emergency responders later brought the blaze under control, while authorities began an assessment of the scale of the destruction and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The incident has left many traders counting losses, with shops and goods affected across parts of the market. Public reports differ on the number of shops involved, and the final extent of the damage remains subject to official assessment.
During his visit, Hon. Olajide met with traders, market leaders, and other community members. He listened to their concerns and expressed deep sympathy to every business owner and family affected by the tragedy.
He described the incident as a painful setback for hardworking people whose shops represent years of savings, daily labour, family responsibilities, and investments in the local economy.
“This is a deeply painful moment for our people. Behind every affected shop is a family, a livelihood, and years of hard work. I sympathise with every trader and business owner affected by this unfortunate incident. At a time like this, we must stand together, offer support, and work toward recovery.”
Odidiomo noted that the market is more than a commercial location; it is an important source of income for traders, artisans, suppliers, transport workers, and families whose survival depends on daily economic activity in the area.
He called for a coordinated response involving the Oyo State Government, emergency services, market associations, community leaders, philanthropic organisations, and well-meaning residents. According to him, affected traders require prompt assessment, practical relief, and support that can help them begin the process of rebuilding their businesses.
The federal lawmaker also called attention to the need for improved safety planning in markets across Ibadan and Oyo State. He said major markets should have accessible fire points, reliable water sources, clearly marked emergency routes, safety education for traders, and stronger collaboration with the Oyo State Fire Service.
Hon. Olajide commended firefighters, security personnel, volunteers, market leaders, and residents who responded to the emergency. He urged traders and members of the public to cooperate fully with the authorities as investigations continue into the cause of the fire and as assessments are conducted to determine the full scale of losses.
He also appealed to individuals, organizations, and community groups to support verified relief efforts for the affected traders. He stressed that rebuilding should be guided by fairness, transparency, and attention to those most severely affected.
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