Delta State Government Extends Relief to Victims of Oghareki Market Inferno

By Seigha Dora Ayedi, Global Egberi Media International (Reporting from Italy)

In a strong demonstration of empathy and responsiveness, the Delta State Government has extended financial support to victims of the tragic December 31, 2024, fire disaster that engulfed the Oghareki Market in Ethiope West Local Government Area.

During a brief yet significant event held yesterday at the State Government warehouse, the Honourable Commissioner for the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Terry Etacherure, formally presented financial relief packages to affected traders and business owners.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Etacherure emphasized that the relief funds were not to be misconstrued as compensation, but rather as a show of solidarity and a deliberate step towards mitigating the devastating effects of the incident on the livelihoods of the victims. He reiterated the state government's unwavering commitment to the welfare and well-being of all Deltans, particularly during times of crisis.

“This is not compensation,” Hon. Etacherure clarified. “It is a compassionate gesture from the Delta State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, to cushion the impact of the unfortunate fire disaster on our people. We understand the pain and hardship such incidents bring, and we are here to let the victims know that they are not alone.”

The Oghareki market fire, which occurred on the night of December 31, 2024, was a catastrophic event that saw several stalls and properties worth millions of naira destroyed. Many traders lost their entire inventory and sources of livelihood in the inferno, prompting appeals from community leaders and civil society organizations for government intervention.

The relief initiative is part of broader efforts by the state’s Bureau for Special Duties to address emergency situations and provide timely intervention to vulnerable citizens affected by disasters.

Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the state government for the support, describing it as a timely intervention that would help them begin the journey toward recovery. Several victims noted that the funds would assist them in restocking their shops and restarting their businesses.

Community leaders in Ethiope West also lauded the state’s response, commending the government for showing true leadership and compassion at a time when it is most needed.

This latest intervention adds to a growing list of state-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing disaster response and recovery, further reinforcing Delta State’s position as a people-centered government that prioritizes the needs of its citizens.

Global Egberi Media International will continue to monitor the post-relief developments in Oghareki and other communities affected by similar incidents.

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Published by: Global Egberi Media International
Contributor: Seigha Dora Ayedi (From Italy)
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