Oyebanji decries looting as fire destroys multimillion-naira property in Ekiti

By Victor Akinkuolie, Ado-Ekiti
The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has condemned the looting of property by unscrupulous individuals during a midnight fire outbreak in Igede-Ekiti, which destroyed multimillion-naira property on Tuesday.
The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, visited the scene of the incident, where two buildings comprising six shops and residential apartments were consumed by the inferno.
Oyebanji pledged to investigate the looting and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The fire, which started around 1:30 am, caused extensive damage before firefighters from the Ekiti State Fire Service intervened. Fortunately, no lives were lost.
Sympathising with the victims, the governor assured them that the state government would provide relief materials to mitigate their suffering.
He also urged shop owners to prioritise safety by turning off electrical appliances at night, noting that the fire might have been caused by a spark from high-voltage electricity.
“This unfortunate incident could have been avoided if proper precautions were taken,” Oyebanji said.
“The government has repeatedly warned about the dangers of leaving lights on when not in use. High voltage likely caused wires to melt, leading to the fire that destroyed these two buildings. I urge everyone to heed these warnings for their safety.”
Addressing reports of looting during the incident, Oyebanji condemned the act as an extreme display of wickedness, saying, “It is disheartening that some people chose to steal instead of helping to safeguard property during such a tragic event. This behaviour is unacceptable in any civilised society. We will investigate and ensure those responsible face the full weight of the law.”
The governor also visited the Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, Oba James Aladesuru, to express his condolences and assured the monarch that his administration would expedite the enumeration of losses and provide necessary interventions.
One of the victims, Mr Chinedu Nbamu, expressed gratitude to the governor for his visit. He urged the authorities to ensure that those who looted property are arrested and prosecuted to deter others.
He dismissed claims that the fire originated from his multimillion-naira shop, describing the incident as both painful and worrisome.
The Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, Oba James Aladesuru, commended the governor for his compassion during this difficult time.
The monarch appealed for swift government action to provide palliatives that would enable the victims to rebuild their lives and businesses.
The Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency is expected to begin an assessment of the damages soon to facilitate the relief efforts.