Following last week’s devastating fire that resulted in the destruction of goods and properties valued at billions of naira, many traders are now grappling with the impact of their losses. In response to this tragic event, the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has urgently appealed to both government agencies and the private sector for immediate support to help the affected traders rebuild their businesses.
Among the affected traders is Mrs. Chinonso Adline Nwokearu, who reported losses amounting to N220 million. Ezeji James Kelechi estimated his losses, including cash and goods, at N170 million, while Mr. Ndubuisi Uche Kalu suffered a loss of N280 million. Ogechi Sunday Ibem faced the brunt with an estimated loss of N350 million, and Olua Ukairo lost goods valued at N80 million. Additionally, Kelechi Ananaba lost goods worth N250 million, and Lewechi Emeh's losses totaled N270 million. Other traders, including Ifeanyi Nwose Nwofoke (N110 million), Uduma Ukairo (N95 million), Nwachukwu Mike (N170 million), Ibrahim Siaka (N65 million), Favour Victor (N140 million), and Kenneth Onwuka (N60 million), also detailed their significant losses. Many of these traders reported that their goods had just arrived in Onitsha from the ports and were unloaded prior to the incident, resulting in a complete loss of their capital.
Expressing solidarity with the traders, COSEYL, the leading sociopolitical youth organization in the South East geopolitical zone, condemned the unfortunate situation.
The coalition's President General, Goodluck Ibem, highlighted the profound financial and emotional toll the calamity has taken on those affected. He stated, "The traders, who rely on their businesses to support their families and contribute to the economy, are now facing a dire situation. The effort and dedication invested in building their enterprises have been completely erased, leaving them in a state of uncertainty and despair."
In his poignant message, he called for immediate government intervention to provide the necessary assistance to those impacted. This could include emergency relief aid, compensation for their losses, and long-term support initiatives aimed at facilitating the reconstruction of their businesses. He also emphasized the importance of implementing enhanced fire safety measures in commercial districts to prevent a recurrence of such disasters.
"The recovery of these traders is vital not only for their personal wellbeing but also for the broader local economy," Ibem remarked. "In times of crisis, we depend on our leaders to show compassion and support. We trust that the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction will take swift action to aid these individuals during this challenging period."
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