The Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, has expressed deep sympathy to gospel artiste and media personality Yinka Ayefele following the fire that engulfed Fresh FM radio station in Ibadan, Oyo State, describing the incident as “sad and unfortunate.”
A statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Mr Bolaji Tunji, noted that the minister received with grave concern reports of the fire at the premises of Fresh FM 105.9, a station widely regarded as “a pillar of quality broadcasting, entertainment, and public enlightenment in Oyo State and across Nigeria.”
Adelabu conveyed his “heartfelt sympathies to Dr Ayefele, the management and staff of Fresh FM, and the people of Oyo State over this devastating incident,” stressing the national significance of the loss and the impact on the local community.
He underscored the importance of electrical safety in both public and private facilities, calling on stakeholders to ensure regular inspections of power infrastructure and strict compliance with safety standards to prevent similar occurrences.
“As Minister of Power and a regular listener of Fresh FM, I encourage all stakeholders to prioritise thorough inspections of power installations and maintain rigorous safety protocols to reduce the risk of fire,” Adelabu stated.
The minister also praised the prompt and courageous response of the Oyo State Fire Service and other first responders, recognising the vital role of the local community in helping contain the blaze.
“The dedication of first responders underscores the value of robust emergency preparedness and the strength of community support,” he added.
Adelabu highlighted the need for unity and support during this difficult period, affirming that “we stand with Dr Yinka Ayefele and the entire Fresh FM family,” while calling for continued vigilance and preventive measures to protect similar facilities nationwide.
The Fresh FM fire has drawn national attention to safety protocols in broadcasting and media facilities, emphasising the urgent need for enforcement of regulations and proactive maintenance of electrical infrastructure across both private and public sectors.
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