Obi sympathises with victims of Abuja market fire

Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has shown empathy towards traders and business owners impacted by a fire that razed Eda Plaza market in Abuja's Jabi district on Sunday. The blaze, which destroyed shops and goods reportedly valued at millions of naira, prompted Obi to call for improved emergency response systems in Nigeria, especially for fire services.

An eyewitness reported the alarm went off at 3 am after a trader received a distress call about the fire. According to the witness, the fire caused significant damage, including the loss of N20 million worth of roofing materials. However, there were no reported casualties. Obi expressed his condolences to those affected, emphasizing that the losses went beyond mere merchandise, representing years of savings, borrowing, and sacrifice for the affected traders and business owners.

He stressed that such incidents gradually diminish the country's productive capacity. As a nation, Obi argued, we cannot afford to lose businesses and livelihoods repeatedly due to preventable disasters. He urged authorities to fortify emergency response systems, ensuring that fire services are properly equipped and staffed. Obi believes that protecting small businesses and enhancing safety for citizens is crucial for Abuja and the entire nation.