Matawalle visits Apo Market fire victims, donates N20m relief

By Sola Ojo

Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle has visited the Pigba Pantaker District Market in Apo, Abuja, where a nighttime fire recently destroyed homes, shops, and goods belonging to hundreds of traders.

The blaze, which swept through makeshift structures in the market, left many of the 324 mainly northern artisans and metalworkers displaced and without tools or wares.

During his visit, Matawalle toured the burnt sections to assess the damage and spoke with affected traders, who recounted how the fire consumed their belongings within minutes.

Visibly concerned, the minister announced a personal donation of N20 million as immediate relief for the victims.

He assured the traders that he would brief President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the incident and seek federal support for their recovery and rehabilitation.

The minister’s unannounced arrival at the market drew a massive crowd, with traders chanting his name and expressing gratitude for his visit.

Community leaders described the gesture as timely and urged government authorities to help rebuild the market to prevent future disasters.

Matawalle encouraged the traders to remain hopeful and urged them to pray for the country’s progress and its leaders.

He said, “I want to encourage you to be hopeful that the refreshing time shall come.

“Pray for the country and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed. I can assure you, Nigeria will be great under Tinubu.”