Date: 2017-04-27

The Transition Implementation Chairman (TIC) Chairman of Ilorin West Local Government Area, Alhaji Abdul-hameed Oladipupo Alli, has assured that the shops destroyed by inferno at the Baboko market recently, will be reconstructed soon.

No fewer than 40 shops and wares worth N50 million were razed by the midnight fire reportedly caused by electrical upsurge.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after meeting with the new executive of the market on Wednesday the Chairman said plans are underway for the reconstruction of the burnt section of the market.

He said, "The new traders' association is working in consonance with the revenue department of the local government to ensure effective running of the market.

"The new committee towards enhancing business activities in the market has been able to solicit for contributions from the traders and they bought security wares, a motorcycle, torchlights and other necessary items to empower the vigilantes, thus strengthening security in the market .

"Therefore, my coming here is to hold a meeting and witness the distribution of these items to the vigilantes. I'm impressed with their gesture."

The chairman stated that with the gesture by the market stakeholders, the local government is considering plans to rebuild the shops for them. He said," Our meeting this evening with the marketers will determine the time for the reconstruction of the shops."

However, Alli said he is not in position to speak on the issue of compensation of the victims, adding that it will be handled at the state level. "Since the Special Adviser to the Governor on Emergency was at the scene when the incident occurred, it compensation is being handled at the state level."