Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has announced plans to restructure Alesinloye Market in Ibadan to prevent future fire incidents. This follows a devastating blaze in March that destroyed goods worth millions of naira.
During an inspection visit to the market on Tuesday, Makinde expressed concern over the fire outbreak and the failure of the on-site fire station to contain it. He emphasized the need for proper market planning to minimize such risks in the future.
The governor also revealed that his administration had provided relief measures to support affected traders. Additionally, he directed the suspension of a proposed demolition of a section of the market, insisting that an alternative must first be arranged for traders.
Makinde assured that the state government, in collaboration with the Ibadan South-West Local Government and the Ibadan South Local Council Development Area (LCDA), would take further steps to assist those impacted by the fire.
“There are two major concerns,” Makinde said. “First, we need to properly organize the market, ensuring that the fire station within the premises is fully functional to prevent future disasters. Second, I have instructed the local government to delay demolition plans until traders are provided with an alternative space.”
He further stressed the importance of fire prevention, urging traders to handle flammable goods with extra caution. “It’s always better to prevent fire outbreaks than to manage them. Awareness and careful storage of combustible materials are crucial in avoiding such incidents,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to market safety and traders’ welfare, pledging continued efforts to enhance fire prevention measures across the state.
