In the wake of the devastating midnight fire that ravaged over 500 shops at the Jos Terminus Market, former Plateau State Governor, Senator Dr. Joshua Chibi Dariye, has expressed deep sorrow and called for urgent support to affected traders.
Describing the inferno as “most unfortunate,” Senator Dariye highlighted the repeated nature of such tragedies, referencing the recent Katako Market fire in Laranto. He lamented the economic blow to hundreds of traders who lost clothing, cosmetics, and other goods worth millions of naira, stating that the disaster comes at a time when many Nigerians are already struggling under harsh economic conditions.
In his message of condolence, the Senator prayed for strength for the victims and urged them not to lose hope despite the magnitude of their losses. He also issued a heartfelt appeal to both the federal and state governments, particularly the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, to swiftly provide relief and support for those affected.
Commending the prompt visit by Jos North authorities and the Plateau State Government, Dariye stressed the need for immediate relocation of the traders to a temporary site to help them rebuild their businesses while investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
The former governor further advised the market leadership to adopt stricter safety measures to prevent future fire outbreaks, particularly those caused by power surges or electrical negligence.
“As a people, we must not allow this to become a recurring nightmare,” he said. “Our traders deserve safety, security, and support.”