GistReel

17 shops have been razed down in a fire that broke out at the Moniya market in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The fire reportedly began around 12.30am on Monday, and is believed to have been triggered by a power surge.

It also destroyed goods worth millions of naira, including cash and kinds.

The Babaloja of Moniya Garage, Kolawole Balogun, and Chairman of the Garage, Saliu Bello, disclosed to newsmen that they were alerted by a security guard about the fire at around 12.30am.

Both expressed deep concern over the extent of the losses.

Balogun said, “I rushed to the market as soon as I got the call. We lost multimillion-naira goods. The prompt arrival of the fire service prevented even greater devastation.

“In addition to the goods, cash in millions of naira was also destroyed. Many traders often store their money in their shops when they leave for the night.”

They also called on the government to provide immediate support to the victims, stating that it is a tragic thing to happen to anyone especially now that the economy is not friendly.