By Agbonlahor Felicia
The Chairman of Egor Local Government Council, Hon. Osaro Eribo, has assured victims displaced by the recent fire outbreak on Textile Mill Road in Benin City of immediate government support, including temporary accommodation and other relief measures to ease their hardship.
The fire, which razed a residential building at No. 2 Eriyo Street, off Aghedo Street, near Textile Mill Road, left the landlord and several occupants homeless after destroying property worth millions of naira.
During a visit to the scene, Hon. Eribo sympathised with the affected families and announced that the council would provide temporary shelter as an immediate intervention while additional relief measures are being put in place to support their recovery.
He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in the incident and assured the victims that the council would stand by them throughout the recovery process.
“We will not abandon you in this difficult time. We are committed to taking practical steps to alleviate your suffering and support you as you rebuild your lives,” the council chairman said.
Responding on behalf of the affected families, the landlord, Mr. John Osamwonyi, thanked God that there was no loss of life despite the scale of the destruction.
He also commended the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for revitalising the Edo State Fire Service, noting that firefighters responded promptly and successfully contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.
Mr. Osamwonyi further appreciated the swift intervention of the Egor Council Chairman, describing his visit as a demonstration of responsive leadership and genuine concern for the welfare of residents.
One of the affected occupants, Mr. John Ossai Eno, recounted the traumatic experience, explaining that the fire was allegedly triggered by a power surge. He said the inferno destroyed all his family’s belongings, including those of his children, leaving them with virtually nothing.
He also expressed appreciation to Hon. Eribo for his prompt response, compassion and commitment to supporting the victims as they begin the process of rebuilding their lives.
