NEMA, OSEMA Assess Atakumosa Market Fire Victims as Goods Worth Millions Are Destroyed

By Segilola Babalola

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with the Osun State Emergency Management Agency (OSEMA), has conducted an assessment and verification exercise at Atakunmosa Market, Ilesa, following a recent fire outbreak that destroyed several shops in Atakunmosa West Local Government Area.

The assessment team from NEMA’s Ibadan Operations Office was led by the South-West Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Kadiri Olarewaju, alongside officials of OSEMA led by its General Manager, Mrs Olubukola Aderibigbe. During the visit, the officials expressed sympathy with the affected traders and thanked God that no life was lost in the incident.

Mr. Olarewaju described the fire as extensive, noting that many traders were affected, including vulnerable persons such as the elderly and those who depend solely on daily market sales for survival.

He advised residents and traders to exercise caution in the handling of fire and electrical appliances in markets, homes, and offices. According to him, switching off electrical devices when closing shops or leaving premises would help prevent power surges capable of causing fire outbreaks and property destruction.

The NEMA zonal coordinator further warned that fire incidents are more common during the dry season, urging traders and residents to take preventive measures and to promptly contact fire service authorities whenever a fire outbreak occurs.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Emergency Management, Hon. Emiola Fakeye, who spoke through General manager Mrs. Aderibigbe, said the assessment was aimed at determining the extent of damage and identifying those affected. He explained that the joint assessment by NEMA and OSEMA was necessary to facilitate appropriate intervention and relief for the victims.

Mrs. Aderibigbe urged traders to avoid practices that could trigger fire outbreaks, particularly during the dry season, stressing that prevention remains better than cure. While noting that government may not be able to fully replace all losses incurred, she assured the victims that relief materials would be provided to help cushion the effects of the disaster.

Speaking on behalf of the traders, the Iyaloja of the market,Mrs Awe olabisi  Hannah,the Market Secretary, Mr. Amos Olumide, and the government’s representative in the market, Mrs. Teniola Ogunteni, appreciated NEMA and OSEMA for the assessment exercise and appealed for assistance from both the federal and state governments.

They disclosed that goods worth millions of naira were destroyed in the inferno, leaving many traders in distress. According to them, the affected shops included those belonging to foodstuff sellers, tailors, grain merchants, household item dealers, as well as sellers of soap, toothpaste, and instant noodles, among others.