Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has promised to rebuild shops destroyed in the Sunday night fire disaster in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area.
The governor made the pledge during a visit to the scene of the incident, where several shops were razed by an overnight fire. He assured affected traders of the government’s commitment to their recovery and safety.
For the third consecutive day, Governor Okpebholo, stepped out of Government House in Benin City to personally address security concerns in Ekpoma, Edo Central Senatorial District, following rising cases of kidnapping and attacks on private property.
On Sunday night, a fire outbreak destroyed several shops constructed by the Police Officers’ Wives Association, leaving traders counting their losses.
During his visit, Governor Okpebholo expressed deep sadness over the incident, describing it as disturbing and unacceptable. He believes that the fire incident may not be unconnected to acts of sabotage, adding that the growing insecurity in Ekpoma appears to be politically motivated.
The governor assured affected traders of swift government intervention, including plans to rebuild the destroyed shops and strengthen security operations in the area.
Governor Okpebholo further noted that the incident followed a similar pattern to previous attacks, warning that those responsible would be identified and brought to justice, regardless of their status or influence in society.
Some of the affected shop owners said they felt victimised over issues they knew nothing about. They explained that the fire started around midnight and spread rapidly, leaving them helpless as their goods were consumed by the flames.
The governor was accompanied on the visit by the Commander of 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, State Commissioner of Police, and other top government and security officials.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
