Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has led a campaign tour ahead of the upcoming council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), alongside members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Obi, who recently defected to the ADC, made his first visit on Wednesday to the popular Kugbo furniture market, which was affected by a fire outbreak.
In a post on his X page, he described the incident as especially painful given the current hardship and poverty faced by many Nigerians.
“At a time when many Nigerians are grappling with deepening hardship and poverty, such losses are especially painful,” he wrote.
Obi assured traders at the market that despite the setbacks, they would recover and thrive again with the right support.
He further stressed that the incident highlighted the need for comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s emergency response systems.
“This incident once again underscores my consistent call for a comprehensive reform of our emergency response systems,” he said.
“A nation that truly cares for its people must invest in efficient, well coordinated emergency services that respond promptly and effectively to crises, saving lives and livelihoods.”
The former Governor of Anambra State visited the market alongside Moses Paul, the ADC chairmanship candidate for the Abuja Municipal Area Council election.
Obi said the visit was aimed at strengthening community engagement ahead of the polls, emphasizing the importance of active citizen participation.
He added, “We must work towards a Nigeria where preventable tragedies are avoided, and where institutions operate effectively for the benefit of all.”