Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, on Monday visited Singer Market in Kano State to sympathise with traders affected by a recent fire outbreak that destroyed goods and property worth millions of naira.
Obi, who spoke during the visit to the popular market, described the incident as deeply touching and a huge loss, not only to Kano State but to the nation at large.
He noted that markets such as Singer Market play a critical role in sustaining livelihoods and contributing to the national economy.
The former governor of Anambra State lamented recurring cases of market fires across the country and stressed the need for proactive measures, including improved safety standards, effective emergency response systems and adequate support for small and medium-scale traders.
Obi also announced a financial donation to support the affected traders and urged them to remain hopeful and resilient despite the setback.
He prayed for peace, stability and economic recovery, assuring the victims that they were not alone in their moment of grief.
According to him, supporting local businesses is essential to national development, adding that compassion and collective responsibility must guide leadership and public service.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Singer Market Association, Alhaji Barrister Junaid Zakari, expressed appreciation to Obi for the visit and the donation.
Zakari described the intervention as timely and encouraging, especially at a period when many traders were struggling to recover from their losses.
He said the visit had boosted the morale of affected traders and called on other well-meaning individuals and organisations to emulate the gesture by extending support to the victims.
The visit was attended by market executives, traders and community members, who commended Obi for identifying with them and offering practical support in the aftermath of the disaster.