Onitsha Inferno: Angry reactions, as Death toll rises again

...3 Dead bodies found in Ochanja market Onitsha tragedy

THREE more dead bodies were recovered, yesterday, at the Ochanja Market in Onitsha, which got burnt when a tanker filled with fuel caught fire at the Upper Iweka area of the commercial city.

This came as Governor Willie Obiano invited the affected traders to assemble at the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka on Monday for documentation and possible assistance from the state government.

Two of the dead bodies were suspected to be salesgirls in one of the burnt shops, while the other male body was found in another shop close to the scene of the fire incident.

Yesterday, the traders constituted themselves into rescue groups and were packing the debris, only to discover the three dead bodies.

Some of the traders almost threatened to cause riot when they were informed that Governor Obiano was coming to sympathize with them.

The governor, who visited the scene at about 9.20am for on the spot assessment of the disaster, could however not enter the burnt market.

Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. Don Adinuba, in a statement said Governor Obiano and the entire people of Anambra State regret the unfortunate situation, adding that the state government had taken steps to address the concerns of those affected.

He said: “ Government therefore requests owners of properties affected by the tragic accident, shop owners and family members of deceased victims to assemble at Ekwueme Square, Awka on Monday October 21 2019 at 11am for documentation and to see how the Anambra State government can assist them.

“ A panel headed by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke has been set up by the governor to immediately determine the cause of the accident, why the firemen could not put out the fire and how the condition of the victims can be ameliorated.

“Governor Obiano and all citizens of Anambra State identify with victims of this unfortunate fire incident and the general inhabitants of Onitsha over this sad inferno.

The Anambra State government will do it’s best to stand by those affected.

“Government therefore calls on all citizens to remain calm in the face of this disaster and be reassured of government’s commitment to the well- being of all and sundry.”

He explained that security agencies in the state had been directed to ensure that law and order were maintained within and around the affected areas.

Former member of House of Representatives, Dr. Tony Nwoye said it was a sad day for Anambra State, regretting the enormous loss of lives and property.

He added: “I empathise with the families of the dead victims and those who lost properties to the inferno. I urge them to show courage and utmost faith in the Creator. The sun will still shine on them all.