House of Representatives aspirant for the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, Hon. Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo (OJO), has extended his heartfelt condolences to traders, artisans, business owners and families affected by the devastating fire outbreak that destroyed several shops and properties at the popular Bode Market in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Describing the incident as a painful tragedy that has shaken one of the commercial hubs of Ibadan, Ogunbayo said the inferno has not only consumed goods and investments worth millions of naira but has also disrupted the livelihoods of many hardworking men and women whose businesses serve as the primary source of income for their families.
According to him, markets remain the backbone of local economic development, and any disaster that affects traders ultimately impacts the wider economy of the constituency and the state at large.
"I received the heartbreaking news of the fire incident with deep sorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with every trader, entrepreneur and family who suffered losses in this unfortunate disaster. It is truly painful to witness years of hard work, dedication and investment destroyed within a few hours."
"I understand the emotional trauma and financial burden many of the victims are currently facing. However, I urge everyone affected not to lose hope. The resilient spirit of Ibadan people has always prevailed in difficult times, and I am confident that together we shall overcome this challenge."
Ogunbayo commended personnel of the fire service, security agencies, emergency responders, community leaders and residents whose swift intervention helped contain the spread of the inferno and prevented further destruction.
He equally called for a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the fire, stressing the need for improved fire safety measures, better emergency response systems and modern infrastructure across major markets within the constituency to reduce the risk of similar occurrences in the future.
The APC chieftain further appealed to the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government, the (NEMA), the (OYSEMA), corporate organisations, financial institutions, philanthropic foundations and public-spirited Nigerians to urgently provide relief materials, financial assistance and recovery packages to enable the affected traders rebuild their businesses and restore their means of livelihood.
"As leaders and stakeholders, this is a moment to demonstrate compassion beyond words. Our traders deserve immediate intervention that will help them recover quickly and return to business. Economic empowerment begins with protecting the livelihoods of our people, particularly our small and medium-scale business owners who contribute immensely to local economic growth."
Reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the welfare and economic prosperity of the people of Ibadan North-West and Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, Ogunbayo stated that responsive leadership is built on empathy, accessibility and practical solutions to the challenges confronting the people.
He emphasized that his vision for the constituency includes promoting policies that support commerce, strengthen market infrastructure, improve disaster preparedness, create employment opportunities and empower entrepreneurs to thrive in a safer and more enabling business environment.
Hon. Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo (OJO) concluded by praying for God's comfort upon every victim of the unfortunate incident and expressed optimism that Bode Market would once again rise stronger through collective support, unity and purposeful leadership.
Signed:
Hon. Oluwatobi John Ogunbayo (OJO)
House of Representatives Aspirant
Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency
All Progressives Congress (APC) – 2027
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