By Comrade Robinson Akhenoba
Eleven more persons have died from Monday’s thunderstorm tragedy that turned Jattu Market upside down.
Four persons were reported killed and several other seriously wounded earlier Monday, but as responders got into action, 11 more bodies were discovered bringing the number to 15.
Jattu is in Etsako West Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses reported that four trees fell during the storm, causing widespread destruction and chaos at the market.
The incident occurred in the early morning hours, when traders and customers were already bustling about, preparing for the day’s activities.
“It was like a scene from a horror movie,” said one eyewitness. “The storm was intense, and the trees came crashing down without warning. People were running and screaming everywhere, trying to escape the falling debris.”
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to provide assistance, but the damage had already been done. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving treatment for their wounds.
His Excellency, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, saying, “I am deeply saddened by this tragic incident. My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. May their souls rest in peace. We will do everything in our power to support the affected families and prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.”
The incident has left the community in shock and mourning, as families and friends of the victims struggle to come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. The market, which is a hub of economic activity in the area, has been closed indefinitely as a result of the tragedy.
In a separate incident, erosion disasters were reported in some parts of Edo North, leaving many families displaced and homeless. The affected communities are calling for urgent government intervention to address the issue.
As the people of Edo State mourn the loss of their brothers and sisters, they are also calling for measures to be put in place to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The government has promised to investigate the incident and provide support to the affected families.
