Ohaneze To Assist Calabar Traders Affected By Fire Outbreak
2 min read
Chiemeka ADINDU, Calabar
Following the recent fire outbreak at Marian Market, Calabar, Ohaneze Ndi Igbo in the state has pledged to offer assistance to the affected traders. This was disclosed to TNN by the president of the group who doubles as the Senior Special Adviser, Non-indigene to Governor Ben Ayade, Ugoji Nwabueze.
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He made the pledge after he visited the market in company of the Mayor of Calabar Municipality, Hon. Effefiong Nta Eke to see the extensive damage done on its structure, goods and services.
“Sadly, this is coming almost two months after the first. This time, the fire took place around food stuff, books and boutique areas causing extensive damages and dislocation of sources of livelihood of both Indigenes and none.
“This post COVID-19 is surely a critical period not good enough for these losses. The office appeals to relevant government agencies, corporate organizations, the political class and Public spirited individuals to assist the victims urgently. Ndi Igbo will surely offer assistance. The Marian Market is currently congested and begs for reconstruction. Efforts should be made to investigate the cause of this second incident. As we edge into the dry season we appeal to the State Fire Service Department to be more vigilant. We deeply sympathize,” he stated.
Also speaking with TNN over the telephone, Mayor of Calabar Municipal Council revealed that the government was going to do something about the situation. He said the process has already begun to work out for modalities on the possible way to assist the traders. He however maintained that it is subject to the governor’s approval as the council cannot do anything without the governor’s consent.
“Definitely, as we speak there are processes to follow and the process is ongoing. We need to communicate to the appropriate quarters and we are subject to the governor. And we are doing a memo to the governor in that regard and it’s very severe. We can’t assist them on our own, we have to get the permission of the governor and we are on it,” Eke noted.
