Jimoh Ibrahim, the representative for Ondo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has donated a sum of N10 million to traders affected by the recent fire disaster at the Caring Heart market in Okitipupa, Ondo State. The devastating blaze, which occurred in the early hours of December 12, destroyed fewer than 18 shops, mainly stocked with frozen foods and other goods, causing an estimated loss of over N50 million.
Ibrahim, accompanied by traditional rulers from the district, visited the market to assess the extent of the damage. During the visit, he expressed deep sympathy for the traders who had lost their livelihoods. He commended the resilience of the affected business owners while lamenting the lack of water at the market, which he believed contributed to the scale of the destruction. “If there had been water here, the fire could have been contained before it spread,” Ibrahim said, acknowledging the preventable nature of the tragedy.
In a bid to prevent similar incidents in the future, Ibrahim pledged to install a solar-powered borehole to provide a reliable water supply to the market. He also promised to brighten the area with solar-powered lamps to improve visibility and safety, particularly during nighttime operations.
The N10 million donation, Ibrahim explained, was intended to help the affected traders restock their goods and recover from the losses they incurred. The donation was well-received, with Florence Irinyemi, the Iyalaje (market leader), thanking Ibrahim on behalf of the traders. “We appreciate your quick response and generous support during this difficult time,” she said.
The donation and the promises of infrastructural improvements are expected to significantly assist in the recovery process for the traders and restore hope to the community.
