Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), has called on market management and stakeholders to emplace safety measures and protocols in the operations of markets in Oyo State.
The foremost Ibadan traditional ruler stated that the call became urgent and necessary to prevent disasters leading to loss of lives and property.
Olubadan made the call in the aftermath of 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.
“I am not happy with the spate of fire disasters in markets 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 measures and protocols 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,” he said.
Olubadan sympathised with traders in Aleshinloye Market whose goods and wares were destroyed in the recent inferno, praying God to replenish them.
The traditional ruler also pleaded with the government, in a release by his media aide, Chief Olugbemiga Ayoade, to see how it can mitigate the attendant losses.
