By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin have called on market leaders and all stakeholders to imbibe safety measures and protocols in their operations to prevent or minimise disasters that may lead to loss of lives and property across markets in the state.
He made the call following the recent fire disaster at Aleshinloye market in Ibadan which reportedly gutted over 500 shops with the Oyo State government promising an investigation into the incident.
The monarch spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade in a statement on Friday.
The monarch said, “I am not happy with the spate of fire disasters in market and other places in Ibadan and Oyo State. It is too frequent for comfort. My call is for the managers of markets to develop and implement stringent safety protocols and measures in our markets to stem the tide of incessant fire outbreaks and other disasters.
“Lives and property are precious. It is imperative that we protect and preserve both for sustainable living and economic development. All stakeholders must work together to prevent and mitigate this negative life and economic threatening trend.”
The paramount ruler sympathized with traders in Aleshinloye market whose goods and wares were destroyed in the recent inferno, praying God to replenish them while also pleading with the government to see how it can mitigate the attendant losses.
