Following the destructive fire at Bamenda’s main market, Joshua Osih, the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Front (SDF), made a visit to the site on Saturday to express his condolences and provide support to the impacted traders.
The devastating fire, which ravaged more than 300 shops and caused injuries to 30 individuals, has had a profound impact on the city’s economy and social structure. Osih, a well-known opposition figure, emphasised the challenges faced by the victims and called for prompt action from authorities during his visit.
Countless families have been left without a source of income, and the repercussions of this catastrophe will be long-lasting. The SDF Chairman blamed the devastating fire on the lack of firefighters and first responders in the city of Bamenda, who could have curbed the damage.
Osih’s visit comes as many of the victims of the fire have been hoping that they will receive some financial support from the government to help rebuild their lives. It is hoped that Osih’s visit will further reiterate this aspect and necessitate the government taking action. He did promise that he and his colleagues will keep fighting in parliament to ensure that there is adequate compensation for victims.
Many people online have emphasized the significance of conducting a thorough investigation into the fire’s cause and called for authorities to concentrate on preventive measures to stop similar incidents from happening again. It is further hoped that Osih’s visit will emphasise this point.
Numerous traders feel that the fire could have been controlled if the market had been more prepared with firebreaks and emergency exits. Demands for modernization and stricter safety regulations have been increasing since the disaster, and it is hoped that Osih’s visit has reinforced these calls.
This presents a chance to establish a safer and more contemporary market that caters to the community’s needs. The government must collaborate closely with the residents of Bamenda to guarantee a prompt and fair recovery.
Osih’s arrival further coincides with the community’s dealing with the consequences of the fire. Amidst the ongoing efforts to provide immediate relief and rebuild, the lasting effects of the disaster are gradually becoming more apparent. The SDF’s participation and Osih’s push for reform is likely to provide a ray of hope for a stronger and safer future for Bamenda’s main market and its traders.
Kate Bih contributed to this article.
