Former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential Candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 General Elections, Mr. Peter Obi, as described the fires that destroyed parts of two markets in Onitsha has heartbreaking, owing to the huge material loss involved.
Obi stated this when he paid a sympathy visit to the two major fire disaster sites in Onitsha – the burnt Electronics Market at Iweka Road and the destroyed Warehouse at Ifejirika Street, within the Main Market, March 29.
Describing the experience as heartbreaking, Mr. Obi lamented the magnitude of loss suffered by the traders, noting that goods worth several billions of Naira were consumed in the infernos. He expressed deep concern over the impact of the disaster on the victims, many of whom, he noted, relied solely on their businesses for livelihood.
While at the sites, Obi held private meetings with the leaderships of the affected markets and some of the worst-hit traders. He commended the efforts of the Anambra State Fire Service in curbing the further spread of the fires, despite obvious challenges.
The former Governor pledged to support the victims in his own modest way, and called on government at all levels, private individuals, and financial institutions, to step in and offer assistance to the affected traders.
‘In moments like this, our shared humanity must prevail. Let us come together to restore hope, rebuild livelihoods, and reaffirm the spirit of community that defines us,’ Obi said.
At Iweka Road, one of the affected traders, Mr. Jeremiah Nwabueze, expressed gratitude to Mr. Obi for the visit, describing it as deeply consoling. He noted that Obi’s presence brought a sense of comfort and solidarity at a time of immense loss.
