On the night of Thursday December 21, 2023, a violent fire ravaged the Agoè-Assiyéyé market in the northern suburbs of Lomé. The tragedy, which occurred at around 10 p.m., plunged many families into desolation, deprived hundreds of traders of their livelihoods and left a lasting impression. Yet, one year on, the blackened concrete and rubble of this emblematic market remain the only visible testimony to the tragedy.
A fruitless investigation
Within days of the incident, an investigation was launched to determine the causes of the incident and who was responsible. However, twelve months later, no official report has been published. Victims and the general public are wondering about the real intentions behind this investigation, which now seems to be at a standstill. Some civil society players are pointing the finger at a lack of political will, fuelling frustration and a feeling of abandonment.
Mayor Kovi Adanbounou in the hot seat
Faced with this stagnant situation, the mayor of the Agoè-Nyivé 1 commune, Kovi Adanbounou, is the target of fierce criticism. Accused of chaotic management, he is held responsible for the absence of concrete measures to rehabilitate the market or support stricken traders. His prolonged silence and the absence of any visible plans to rebuild the market are heightening tensions among the local population.
A market still in ruins
Despite promises made by local and communal authorities, the Agoè-Assiyéyé market remains in ashes. No reconstruction work has been initiated, leaving traders to fend for themselves. Some have taken refuge in neighboring markets, while others have abandoned their activities for lack of funds.
Municipal management under pressure
The lack of tangible progress reveals deep-seated dysfunctions in the management of the Agoè-Nyivé 1 commune. Many voices are being raised to denounce an administration out of touch with local realities and a cruel lack of transparency. Mayor Adanbounou and his team are being called to account and to propose urgent solutions to restore the confidence of their constituents.
A call to action
For the people of the region, rebuilding the Agoè-Assiyéyé market is not just a question of economic survival, but also a symbol of resilience and community solidarity. They urge local and national authorities to act swiftly to bring this crucial space back to life and provide lasting help for the victims.
Meanwhile, the shadow of the fire continues to hang over the commune, testifying to the consequences of poor governance and the weight of institutional silence in the face of a disaster that could have been an opportunity to unite and rebuild.
The defender ( the year-end scoop)
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