Governor Oyebanji Denounces Looting After Midnight Fire in Igede Ekiti

Biodun Oyebanji, the governor of Ekiti State, has condemned the looting of properties by criminal elements following a midnight fire outbreak on Tuesday in Igede Ekiti.

During his visit to the fire scene, where two buildings, including six stores and residential apartments, were destroyed, Governor Oyebanji pledged to investigate the looters and ensure they are brought to justice.

The fire, which began around 1:30 a.m., caused significant damage before firefighters from Ekiti State Fire Services managed to contain it. The incident resulted in losses worth millions of naira, but no lives were lost.

Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, the governor expressed sympathy for the victims and assured them that the government would provide relief materials to ease their burden.

While addressing the possible cause of the fire, Oyebanji speculated that it was likely due to an electrical spark caused by high voltage and melting wires. He urged shop owners to turn off their lights when not in use, as the government had repeatedly advised.

“We sympathize with you,” Oyebanji said. “The news about these losses was distressing to the government. The Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency will soon begin enumerating the victims and estimating their losses to provide intervention.”

Regarding the looting during the fire, the governor expressed disappointment, describing it as a severe act of immorality. “I am not happy that some people were looting property when they should have been helping to safeguard the situation. This is bad and wicked. We will investigate this, and anyone indicted will be arrested and prosecuted,” he vowed.

One of the victims, Mr. Chinedu Nbamu, thanked the governor for his visit and urged the authorities to apprehend and prosecute the looters as a deterrent. Nbamu denied allegations that the fire originated from his multimillion-naira shop, calling the incident "painful and worrisome."

The Onigede of Igede Ekiti, Oba James Aladesuru, also expressed sorrow over the incident. He commended the governor for showing compassion and understanding during this difficult time for the victims. The monarch appealed to the government to expedite the provision of palliatives to help the affected individuals rebuild their businesses.