Four persons were killed with several others injured at the popular Jattu market in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State on Monday morning, after trees fell on them.
The unfortunate event was triggered by heavy rainfall which caused several trees to collapse simultaneously, trapping traders and customers seeking shelter under them.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Etsako West Local Government, Marvellous Zibiri, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and the injuries sustained.
“Around 8:00 am and 9:00 am, I received a call from my vice chairman and the supervisory councillor for environment about the incident at Jattu market,” Zibiri said.
He explained, “During the rainfall, four trees in the market fell while people were taking cover under them, resulting in the tragic death of four persons and leaving many others injured.
“So far, we have recovered four bodies, which have been taken to the mortuary. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical attention at the hospital.”
Zibiri assured that search and rescue operations were ongoing at the scene to ensure that no one else remained trapped or injured.
