Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has visited the sites of two devastating fires in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The fires occurred separately at the Electronics Market Plaza on Iweka Road and a warehouse on Ifejirika Street, Main Market, causing substantial losses estimated at billions of naira.
The Anambra State Fire Service worked tirelessly for hours to control the flames, but the damage to traders’ businesses was severe. Obi, deeply moved by the situation, expressed his sympathy to the affected traders and highlighted the serious impact the fires have had on their livelihoods.
“It was a deeply painful experience to witness the enormous loss suffered by traders at such a challenging time. Without a doubt, several billions of naira worth of goods and properties were lost. The scale of the destruction was overwhelming,” Obi remarked.
Obi appealed to all levels of government, corporate entities, and well-meaning individuals to provide assistance in helping the victims rebuild their businesses. “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,” he urged.
During his visit, Obi also held private discussions with market leaders and some of the most affected traders. He reassured them of his commitment to offering support in any way possible. Furthermore, he commended the Anambra State Fire Service for their persistent efforts in containing the fires, despite facing operational challenges.
