Four big trees in an unusual manner were uprooted by a heavy wind and downpour simultaneously at a major market in Jattu community in the Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State on Monday morning, killing four persons and injuring a lot of traders and customers who hide under the trees to avoid the rainfall.
According to Edo State Governor, four persons died from the incident with many injured.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent, who visited the scene of the incident, reports that the trees came down following a storm and prolonged rainfall.
The Chairman of the council, Marvellous Zibiri confirmed the death of the persons while speaking to newsmen at the market. Saying: “At about 9am on Monday, I got a call from my Vice Chairman and the Supervisory Councilor for Environment about the incident.
“During the rain, four trees in the market fell simultaneously while people took cover under the trees thereby killing four persons and many injured.
“So far, we have been able to recover four bodies and we have taken them to the mortuary while those who sustain injuries are at the hospital for treatment,” Zibiri said.
Zibiri added that rescue operation was still ongoing as the trees were being cut to confirm if there were other bodies under the trees.
The Chairman described the incident as tragic and sympathised with families who lost their love ones at the market.
He, however, appealed to residents to stay indoor whenever it was raining.
NAN in its report recalls that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had predicted thunderstorms and rains from Monday to Wednesday across the country.
The agency urged the public to take adequate precautions as strong winds may precede the rains during the period.
The council boss in a news release signed and made available by Iyamah Nurudeen,
Chief Press Secretary to the
Office Of The Executive Chairman,
Etsako West Local Government Council stated in quote thus:
“In the wake of the devastating tragedy that struck Jattu market, leaving scores injured and trapped under fallen trees, the Executive Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Council, Honourable Marvelous Muhizu Zibiri, has demonstrated exemplary leadership and courage in coordinating emergency response efforts.
The heavy rains that hit the area caused widespread destruction, but Chairman Zibiri swiftly sprang into action, mobilizing security agencies, local emergency services, volunteers, and concerned citizens to evacuate casualties and provide aid to those in need.
Under his close supervision, the rescue team worked tirelessly to evacuate those trapped, providing medical care and attention to those injured. Chairman Zibiri commended the unity and resilience displayed by the residents of Etsako West, praising their spirit and determination in the face of adversity.
The Council Chairman has assured the community of his steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all affected, and has vowed to continue providing support and resources to those in need.
This swift and effective response has earned Chairman Zibiri widespread praise, and his leadership has been hailed as a beacon of hope in a time of grief”.
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has said that measures are currently being adopted by the government to prevent another occurrence of such incident.
In a news release he personally signed and made available through his social media handles, Godwin Obaseki said and in quote: “I received with a heavy heart the news of the unfortunate incident that occurred on Monday morning in Jattu Market, Etsako West Local Government Area of the State, where about four lives were allegedly lost due to fallen trees caused by a heavy downpour.
The incident is deeply saddening. I extend heartfelt condolences to the victims and families affected by this very tragic incident and wish the injured victims a quick recovery.
Emergency response teams have since been deployed to manage the situation and provide support and assistance to those affected, while urgent steps are immediately being taken to ensure such tragedies are prevented in the future.
While we urge all residents to exercise utmost caution as the rainy season intensifies, we reassure of sustained efforts and our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
May God grant repose to the souls of the departed and succour to their families”.
All Progressives Congress, APC candidate in the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, said the incident is regrettable. “I received the terrible news of the havoc caused by the rainstorm in some parts of Edo North, particularly the disaster in Jattu Market.
My sympathy goes to the families, friends, and loved ones affected by the tragic incident today.
The devastating loss of lives and the injuries sustained in such an unexpected and calamitous event, which has left the community in shock and mourning, is regrettable.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time.
Words cannot adequately convey the sorrow I feel for your loss, and I hope that you find some comfort in knowing that the entire Edo State grieves with you.
To others who were injured and are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, please be assured of my prayers for healing and courage to overcome the pain.
The Jattu Market is not just a center of commerce; it is a vibrant part of our community where livelihoods are earned and social bonds are formed.
Today’s rainstorm disaster, which claimed several lives and left many more injured, is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities we face with natural occurrences.
It also underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all Edo citizens in the face of natural calamities.
May I use this medium to call on the Edo State Government and all relevant authorities to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this disaster and take adequate measures to reduce the impact of future similar occurrences.
My party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and I will immediately visit the disaster scenes to assist the affected families”
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