BENIN CITY, Edo State — Hope is returning to traders whose shops and goods were destroyed in the devastating petrol tanker fire at Oluku Market along the Benin-Lagos Expressway, as clearing and debris removal begin at the site.
The traders say they are encouraged by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s promise to rebuild the market and support those who lost their livelihoods in the disaster. The governor made the commitment during a visit to the affected market on October 16, 2026.
One of the affected traders, Julie Ologbosere, praised the governor’s response, saying clearing work began just two days after the incident. Another trader, Yunusa Usman, described the governor as a father to the people and prayed for God’s blessings upon him.
For Isaac Orina, the urgent priority is the speedy reconstruction of the market so traders can return to business and support their families. The fire wiped out goods and disrupted the livelihoods of many traders.
Businessman Adun Osamede, popularly known as Bob Izua, also visited the site and commended the government’s response. He appealed to traders to remain patient and avoid trading along the expressway for their safety and to allow the clearing exercise to proceed smoothly.
The fire followed a petrol tanker incident on October 15, which resulted in an explosion that destroyed shops and goods and left several people injured. Okpebholo has promised that his administration will help rebuild the market and assist affected traders in recovering from their losses.
As debris is cleared, the traders’ main concern is ensuring that reconstruction begins promptly and that practical support reaches those who have lost their businesses.
What should be the government’s top priority in helping Oluku Market traders recover — rebuilding the market, financial assistance, or both?
Please share this report to keep the plight of the affected traders in the public eye.
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