Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti – Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has strongly condemned the looting of properties by criminals during the recent fire outbreak that devastated a local market in one of the state’s communities. The fire, which caused extensive damage to businesses and homes, was met with further chaos as opportunistic criminals took advantage of the situation to steal goods and valuables amidst the destruction.
Governor Oyebanji expressed his outrage over the looting, calling it an act of criminality that preys on the suffering of vulnerable people. He vowed that those responsible for the looting would face severe consequences, assuring the public that the state government would not tolerate such lawlessness. The governor’s condemnation came after widespread reports of looting in the aftermath of the fire, with looters reportedly targeting the charred remnants of businesses in the area.
In a statement issued from his office, Governor Oyebanji expressed deep sympathy for the victims of the fire and assured that the state government would provide necessary support for those affected by the tragedy. He further pledged that the government would work to rebuild the damaged market and homes, ensuring that the community could recover from the devastating incident. However, he made it clear that the crime of looting would not go unpunished, as law enforcement agencies had been instructed to apprehend those involved.
The fire, which occurred in the heart of the community, destroyed several market stalls and left many families without homes or means of livelihood. In the wake of the disaster, the community rallied together to assist the victims, but the outbreak of looting added an unnecessary layer of tension to the already devastating situation. Local authorities quickly moved to restore order, and security forces were deployed to apprehend those involved in the thefts.
Governor Oyebanji also urged residents to work together in the spirit of unity and resilience, emphasizing that such acts of criminality should not overshadow the collective effort to rebuild and recover. He stressed that while the government would continue to offer assistance to the affected families, the law would take its course against those who sought to exploit the disaster for personal gain.
As the investigation into the looting continues, the people of Ekiti remain hopeful that justice will prevail, and the government’s swift response will deter future criminal activities in the region. The state is now focused on restoring normalcy and ensuring that the community comes together to rebuild from the tragic fire incident.