The Benue State Government has donated the sum of N50 million to victims of Otukpo Market fire incident to cushion the effect the recent disaster estimated to have destroyed about 315 shops with property worth millions of naira equally affected.
Governor Ortom announced the donation during an on-the-spot assessment visit, where he also encouraged the traders to support the State Government’s decision to restructure the market.
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The Governor who sympathised with victims of the market fire for the loss of their property, thanked God that no life was lost, expressing the hope that the temporary setback would be overcome.
While also appreciating those who assisted in putting off the fire, Governor Ortom stated that a committee comprising of the Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency in collaboration with the Otukpo Local Government Council, among others would ascertain the actual victims and also map out modalities for disbursement of the funds.
He urged those who had resisted restructuring and expansion of the market with court cases to withdraw such suits and allow government to create access roads through the market and relocate traders where necessary.
The Governor expressed worry over the spate of insecurity in Benue South Senatorial district occasioned by kidnapping, banditry, herders attacks and other crimes, urging stakeholders to join hands to combat the menace.
Acting Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Council, Inalegwu Adakonye and the Oche Otukpo, John Imonye as well as the Chairman Traders Union, Inalegwu Abounu, all appealed for access roads to the market, even as they expressed appreciation to the Governor for the timely visit.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
