The Oyo State Government has promised to consider alternative shops for traders affected by the demolition of illegal structures at Bola-Ige International Business Complex (BIIBCO), New Gbagi, Ibadan, following a fire outbreak that affected eight shops.
The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, gave the assurance during meetings with affected traders on Friday and Saturday.
Adelabu said the government was exploring assistance for fire victims, while plans were underway to investigate the incident and previous fire outbreaks.
He attributed the demolition exercise to the need to restore BIIBCO’s original master plan, stressing that illegal structures obstructing access roads and waterways posed serious safety risks and hampered firefighting efforts.
The Commissioner clarified that the exercise was not targeted at any individual or group, adding that affected traders would be required to present valid allocation documents for verification.
He assured genuine victims that alternative shops would be considered in suitable locations within the complex.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr Olajide Mamud Okesade, said the government was committed to protecting traders’ interests while ensuring safety and accessibility.
The Babaloja-General, Alhaji Abass Yekini Oladapo, appealed for assistance for traders who reportedly lost goods worth billions of naira in the fire.
The government reiterated that the ongoing reforms were aimed at safeguarding lives and investments and creating a safer, more orderly business environment.
OYO NEWS