By Adeboye Ado
The Ondo North Artisans Association has called on the government, community leaders and public-spirited individuals to assist victims of a fire outbreak that occurred in Ikare Akoko, Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident, which happened at the weekend, destroyed homes and properties, leaving many artisans and families counting their losses.
Head of Artisans in Ondo North, Olalekan Joseph Aroge, who visited the scene, described the incident as devastating and said many of the affected victims were members of the association.
He commended the prompt intervention of the Federal Fire Service and community members, whose joint efforts helped prevent the fire from spreading further.
Aroge said, “We sincerely thank the Nigeria Federal Fire Service for their prompt and diligent response, which prevented further damage and safeguarded lives.
“We also appreciate the community members who worked alongside the fire officers to contain the fire and assist those affected.”
He appealed to the government and other stakeholders to come to the aid of the victims, saying the losses were overwhelming and could push many families into hardship if not urgently addressed.
Aroge added that the artisans’ body would continue to stand with the affected families as part of its motto: “No Artisans, No Nation. We Are Family, We Are One.”
The association’s Public Relations Officer, Kayode Oke, also reiterated the group’s commitment to supporting its members, stressing that the tragedy underscored the need for stronger community solidarity.