Peter Obi Storms Scene of Abuja Market Fire Disaster, Urges Govt Assistance for Affected Traders

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Party (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has visited Eda Plaza in Jabi, Abuja, following a devastating fire outbreak that reportedly left more than 45 traders counting heavy losses.

The inferno, which gutted parts of the shopping complex, destroyed shops, goods and investments accumulated by traders over several years.

Obi visited the scene of the disaster and met some of the affected traders, many of whom were still clearing debris and desperately searching through the ruins to salvage whatever was left of their businesses.

The former Anambra State governor expressed deep sympathy for the victims and pledged his support, describing the incident as a painful setback for hardworking Nigerians struggling to earn a living.

“For many of these traders, their shops represent years of hard work, savings, sacrifice and hope,” Obi said.

“What was lost is therefore far more than physical structures and merchandise; livelihoods have been disrupted, dreams have been set back, and families have been placed under additional hardship.”

‘Government Must Stand With Its People’ — Obi

Obi used the visit to renew his call for government at all levels to come to the aid of Nigerians facing difficult circumstances, particularly victims of disasters.

According to him, leadership should not only be judged by infrastructure projects but also by the willingness of government to support citizens when tragedy strikes.

“My consistent position has been that government must always care for its people, particularly in moments of difficulty and vulnerability,” he stated.

“In times like this, leadership must be measured not only by what government builds, but also by how it stands with citizens when they lose what they have painstakingly built.”

The Labour Party chieftain stressed that the affected traders needed urgent support to enable them to rebuild their businesses and return to economic stability.

Obi Prays for Traders to Bounce Back

Obi prayed for the victims to find the strength and resources needed to recover from the devastating incident.

“I pray that God Almighty grants the affected traders the strength, resources and opportunity to recover from this painful loss, and that their businesses and livelihoods will be restored,” he said.

The fire disaster has once again drawn attention to the vulnerability of small business owners, whose shops often represent years of savings, sacrifices and investments.

For the affected traders at Eda Plaza, the journey to recovery has only just begun.

Obi ended his message with his familiar slogan:

“A New Nigeria is POssible.”

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