The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has expressed deep sadness over the losses recorded in the recent fire outbreaks at the 22-storey Great Nigerian Insurance Building on Lagos Island and the Nigerian Army Shopping Complex in Oshodi, Lagos State.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Enugu by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr Ezechi Chukwu, the organisation described the incidents as tragic, noting that the fires claimed lives and destroyed property and goods worth several billions of naira.
Chukwu said the group was also disturbed by the fire that engulfed the Nigerian Army Shopping Complex, popularly known as Arena Market, at Bolade, Oshodi, in the early days of the new year.
He disclosed that the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Sen. Azuta Mbata, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as business owners and others affected by the incidents.
According to him, Mbata described the losses as painful and devastating, not only for the immediate victims but also for the nation’s economy.
“These recurring fire disasters underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive review and strengthening of emergency response infrastructure, fire safety preparedness and market safety mechanisms across the country.
“Markets are the lifeline of millions of Nigerians and must be adequately protected through proactive planning, functional firefighting facilities and effective coordination among emergency agencies,” the statement said.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide called on relevant authorities at all levels of government to treat the incidents as a wake-up call and take immediate steps to prevent future occurrences.
The organisation stressed the need for mandatory inclusion of fire containment features in the construction of market stalls and other commercial facilities.
It also prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the incidents.