Delight Chinedum
Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi has sympathized with victims of fire disasters in two major markets in Onitsha, namely electronics market at Iweka Road and the destroyed warehouse at Ifejirika Street, within the Main Market.
Speaking during the visit to two major fire disaster sites weekend, Obi described the experience as heartbreaking, lamenting the magnitude of loss suffered by the traders.
He noted that goods worth several billions of naira were consumed by the inferno, expressing deep concern over the impact of the disaster on the victims, many of whom rely solely on their businesses for livelihood.
While holding private meetings with leadership of the affected markets as well as some of the worst-hit traders, Presidential candidate of the Labour Party commended efforts of the State Fire Service in curbing further spread of the fire, amidst obvious challenges.
He pledged to support the victims in his own modest way just as he called on government at all levels, private individuals, and financial institutions to step in and offer assistance to the affected traders.
He said, “It’s very difficult for anyone involved in genuine business to strive in this kind of situation; losing anything now is very devastating.
“There’s nothing much one can do especially in a society where insurance doesn’t work. And even if it works, there’s no way to calculate the losses. It’s an experience you can’t imagine, unless you’re involved.
“It’s unfortunate that those involved in governance don’t know what an average Nigerian doing genuine business is passing through. We can only but remain prayerful and try in anyway we can to console the victims and pray God to grant them fortitude to go through these difficult times.
“In moments like these, our shared humanity must prevail. Let us come together to restore hope, rebuild livelihoods, and reaffirm the spirit of community that defines us,” Obi noted.
One of the affected traders at Iweka road, Jeremiah Nwabueze described Obi’s visit as deeply consoling, saying, “your presence brought sense of comfort and solidarity at a time of immense loss.”