By Ado Hassan, Sokoto
A five man Federal Government delegation led by the Chief of Staff to the President , Professor Ibrahim Gambari was yesterday in Sokoto to commiserate with the government and people of the state over last week’s Sokoto market fire incident , pledging it readiness to support the reconstruction of the market which houses 16, 000 main and make shift shops.
Also on the delegation received by Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal included: Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Ministers for Police Affairs, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi; Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isah Ali Pantami and that of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Services, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouk.
Commiserating over the tragic incident, Leader of delegation , Gambari said the President Buhari had expressed concern with utmost show of solidarity with the state government and its people over the damage caused by the inferno.
He described Sokoto traders and the market as an industrious hub to the state economy and nation at large.
” We sympathise with you “
Also, Senator Wamakko added that ” Buhari was touched over the incident and expressed high level of concern to the people of the state which is why we are here to convey his message.”
Responding, Governor Tambuwal who disclosed that 60% of the shops were razed by the fire, said he and people of the state especially the victims were consoled and delighted by the action of Mr President for despatching a high powered delegation to the state.
” He thought it wise for the show of love, concern and support which was expected of him as a true leader.
” Buhari did not only encouraged us but we are not feeling abandoned.”
The governor who though, said the state government was doing its best to reconstruct the market , also described incident as a monumental loss and tragedy to especially the traders, particularly at time of current economy challenges.
Tambuwal also disclosed that findings revealed that the incident was caused by electrical fault from the source serving the market.
” Sokoto market is a dependable hub not only for the state but the subregion and Africa as a whole.
He prayed Allah to guide and support President Buhari in delivering his mandate to the benefit of Nigerians.
