Dr. Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia State, has extended heartfelt condolences to traders at Ariaria International Market and Asa Nnentu Spare Parts, Ala Oji in Aba, following the devastating fire that consumed their shops from Saturday night through Sunday morning.
The governor expressed deep sympathy for the reported loss of goods valued at hundreds of millions of naira.
In an official statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Otti conveyed his sorrow over the unfortunate incident, emphasizing the economic challenges faced by the Aba traders at this critical time.
He urged all traders in the state to adopt rigorous safety measures, particularly during the harmattan season, to prevent future fire disasters.
Governor Otti specifically called upon market leaders, including chairmen and chief security officers, to take responsibility for ensuring the absolute protection of markets.
He warned of severe consequences for any form of internal or external sabotage and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to safeguard the interests of traders and residents.
The governor expressed relief that there was no loss of life and assured the public that his government is committed to investigating the root causes of the incidents. To provide immediate assistance to the victims, he dispatched government officials, led by the General Manager of Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) and the Mayor of Aba North, to assess the extent of the fire damage.
