The Ekiti State Government says it has so far donated N100 million to victims of fire outbreaks within the past year, including N35 million for victims of the most recent incident.
The Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye, stated this on Tuesday in Ado-Ekiti while distributing cheques to the second batch of fire victims in the state.
Afuye added that the government had also spent a cumulative N150 million to mitigate the impact of the 2025 rainstorm on victims across the 16 local government areas.
She noted that Governor Biodun Oyebanji acknowledged the trauma, distress, and uncertainty suffered by the victims after losing priceless property to devastating fires.
She urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds and remain more vigilant to enable proactive and intelligent actions that could prevent similar incidents in the future.
“Fire disaster is one of the most devastating occurrences anyone or any family can experience.
“In a matter of minutes, years of hard work, investment, and cherished memories can be reduced to ashes.
“No amount of money given can replace what you have lost, but the governor believes this intervention will provide a measure of relief and serve as motivation for recovery, rebuilding, and renewal of hope.
“It would be recalled that victims of similar unfortunate incidents in 2025 received over N50 million from the state government.
“It is our expectation that the beneficiaries will judiciously utilize this support to re-establish their livelihoods and regain stability,” Afuye said.
She appealed to residents to take precautions and embrace safe practices in their homes, markets, and workplaces.
She assured residents that the government would continue to strengthen emergency response mechanisms and intensify public enlightenment on fire prevention and safety measures.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr Oludare Asaolu, said the Oyebanji-led administration was concluding negotiations to sign an MoU with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency for equipment and training of state fire operatives.
Asaolu thanked the governor for promptly approving funds to cater for victims of fire and rainstorm disasters in the state.
According to him, this accounted for why succour was being frequently provided to mitigate the suffering of those whose property had been destroyed.
Also speaking, the Head of Operations, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Ekiti and Ondo states, Dr Kofoworola Soneye, advised SEMA and other stakeholders to strengthen safety campaigns to help the populace take proactive actions to manage emergencies in the state.
Responding on behalf of the other beneficiaries, Mr Idowu Oba thanked the governor for his timely intervention.
Oba urged his fellow victims to spend the government’s largesse wisely and continue to support the governor in his efforts to make Ekiti safe for all.
