The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has donated N1 million each to traders whose shops were destroyed by the recent fire outbreak at Ore Market in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The intervention is aimed at cushioning the immediate economic impact of the disaster on the affected traders and supporting them in their efforts to rebuild their businesses and livelihoods.

The gesture came shortly after Tunji-Ojo provided support to victims of the recent flooding across Ondo South, reinforcing his commitment to assisting residents affected by disasters and other difficult circumstances.

Presenting the cash support to the beneficiaries, former Ondo State Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju, described Tunji-Ojo as a compassionate and people-oriented leader who had consistently demonstrated concern for the welfare of ordinary citizens.

Adeyanju said the intervention demonstrated that leadership was not merely about holding public office but about using such positions to make a positive difference in the lives of the people.

“Leadership is not merely about occupying public office. It is about being present when the people need help the most,” she said.

She said the financial assistance came at a critical time for the affected traders, who were struggling with the consequences of losing their shops and goods to the fire, adding that the intervention would give them the opportunity to begin rebuilding their businesses.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Akinnusi expressed appreciation to the minister for the support, describing it as timely and meaningful.

Akinnusi said the traders were facing uncertainty over how to restart their businesses after the fire destroyed their sources of livelihood, adding that the assistance would provide some relief as they begin the recovery process.

The intervention adds to other relief efforts by Tunji-Ojo in support of vulnerable residents, including victims of natural disasters and other emergencies.

The minister’s gesture has also been described by political and community leaders as an example of grassroots-oriented leadership, particularly at a time when affected traders require immediate assistance to recover from the disaster.

The presentation was attended by former member of the House of Representatives for Odigbo/Ileoluji/Okeigbo Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin; Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju; Hon. Olurimisi Ismaila; Mr Felix Olatunde; Mr Felix Esan; Hon. Iwalewa Afolabi and other political and community leaders.

They joined the beneficiaries in commending Tunji-Ojo for the intervention and expressing appreciation for his support to residents affected by the fire outbreak.