Mgbuka Obosi Fire: Government presents relief materials to victims

By Chinyere Nwoye

Awka, June 11, 2020 (MOI) The Federal Government through National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has presented relief materials to victims of Mgbuka Obosi Market inferno, through the Anambra State Government.

Materials donated include 930 bags of cement, 930 roofing sheets, 930 roofing boards and nails.

The event took place at State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) office complex, Awka.

At about 12 midnight of Jan. 11, Mgbuka Obosi Market was gutted by fire that razed property worth millions, while a trader lost his life in the fire.

Receiving the items, Gov. Willie Obiano noted that the State Government had earlier constituted a Panel of Enquiry to ascertain the cause of the disaster as well access accessed the level of damages.

The governor was represented by his Deputy, Dr Nkem Okeke.

The governor disclosed that the State Government intervened massively and had beckoned on FG for more assistance.

According to him, NEMA's intervention is as a result of efforts of the State Government.

He announced that FG would soon assist Anambra with two fire trucks and commended NEMA for the intervention.

He urged traders to make judicious use of the items in rebuilding their shops.

NEMA South East Zonal Coordinator, Mr Fred Anusim noted that sequel to prayers of the State Government to FG, NEMA/SEMA conducted assessment tests on Jan. 14, to ascertain the level of damages.

He urged traders to be conscious of their environment and manage every electrical system to avoid a repeat of such ugly situation.

Executive Director, SEMA, Mr C Y Agupugo commended NEMA for its intervention, especially now that the country was faced with Coronavirus pandemic challenges.

He maintained that the materials would go a long way in helping the rebuilding of shops.

Agupugo enjoined the traders to embrace insurance policies, which he said could offer assistance in times of disasters.

Chairman, Mgbuka Obosi Market, Mr Samuel Ezeobodo commended FG through NEMA for its intervention in their plight.

He expressed gratitude to the State Government while noting that members of the State Fire Service deployed their professionalism in arresting the inferno.

Mr Ezeobodo promised that the items would be distributed equitably to ensure that the aims of FG state Government were actualised.

Present at the event was Member representing Idemili North and South Federal constituency, Mr Obinna Chidoka, who was represented by his Special Assistant, Mr Amala Onuigbo.