 |
| Destruction at Moniya Garage after the fire. |
In the quiet hours of Monday morning, everyone was most likely still dreaming while chaos ensued at Moniya Garage Ibadan. A fire outbreak occurred, razed down shops, and put property worth millions of naira to rubble. It was the kind of disaster that you would wish not for anyone, not even your greatest enemy.
When the fire was put out, the destruction was mind-blowing. Businesses that had been providing vital support to the owners of small businesses were now no more than burned-out shells. From spare parts to food, all were destroyed by the fire. Luckily, there was no loss of life in the fire incident, although the economic loss was severe. Consider the fact that you get up one day and find out that all that you have been working for has been destroyed.
What caused the fire? Well, that’s still a mystery. Some people whispered about electrical faults, while others speculated about negligence. Whatever the case, it’s clear this incident leaves a big question mark on safety measures at such hubs.
It will not be easy for the people affected by this to rebuild what they have lost. Such communities are anchored on the principle of resilience, and while this might sound encouraging, it is by no means comforting. This is not just another story that you will find in the news; it is a harsh realization of how easily the buildup of a lifetime can be shattered.
Let’s all pray that the government comes in to investigate the incident and assist the affected persons in losing their sources of income in the process. And isn’t that what community is all about?