By Nwafor Sunday

Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep sympathy for the victims of the Aleshinloye Market inferno in Ibadan and the tanker explosion on the Otedola Bridge in Lagos.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Atiku described the incidents as tragic and unfortunate, lamenting the loss of lives and destruction of properties.

“I have just been informed about the fire incident at the Aleshinloye Market in Ibadan, which razed many stalls and wares, as well as the tanker explosion on the Otedola Bridge in Lagos, which claimed two lives and left three others injured,” he said.

Atiku extended his condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde and the government of Oyo State over the market fire, and to the Lagos State Government and families of victims affected by the Otedola Bridge explosion.

“It is my prayer that the Almighty shall replenish the losses for those affected and grant a speedy recovery to the injured,” he added.

The former Vice President stressed the urgent need for increased awareness about fire management in markets, public spaces, and on roads—especially during the dry season.

“These unfortunate incidents reinforce the importance of fire safety measures. I urge all relevant authorities to strengthen preparedness and preventive measures to avoid future tragedies,” he advised.

Atiku’s message comes as authorities in both Oyo and Lagos states continue to assess damages and provide relief to affected victims.