The Executive Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government, Babatunde Oyetola Diya, on Thursday night paid a sympathy visit to the residence of Mr. Joseph Adekoya, a former Supervisor for Agriculture, whose home was razed by fire.

Arriving at about 9:42 p.m., shortly after receiving reports of the incident, Diya was accompanied by Hon. Taofeek Olawale Oyetunji, Councillor representing Ward 5; Prince Amos Onileagbon, APC Ward 5 Chairman; Mr. Nurudeen Adekoya, Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties; and members of the local government security team, including Chief Security Officers.

The chairman said the purpose of the visit was to personally assess the extent of the destruction and demonstrate the council’s solidarity with the affected family.

Expressing deep concern over the loss, Diya announced a financial donation to support the victim as he begins recovery efforts. He noted that the incident underscores the urgent need to strengthen emergency response infrastructure within the local government.

According to him, the presence of a fully functional fire station could have significantly minimized the damage, stressing that improving safety systems and rapid-response mechanisms would be prioritised to prevent similar occurrences.

Mr. Adekoya recounted that he had left his residence around 11:30 a.m. before later receiving information that his house had been engulfed by fire. He stated that the cause of the blaze remains unknown, with investigations ongoing.

He expressed appreciation to the council chairman for the prompt visit and financial assistance, describing the gesture as a source of comfort during a distressing moment.

The incident has renewed conversations around emergency preparedness at the grassroots level, with local authorities indicating that strengthening response capacity will be central to future safety planning in Odogbolu.