BREAKING; Four persons killed as heavy downpour wrecks havoc

BREAKING; Four persons killed as heavy downpour wrecks havoc

At least four traders have lost their lives due to a severe rainstorm accompanied by strong winds at the IBB Square in Bauchi State, the site of the recently concluded North East Trade Fair.

The storm, which struck last night, killed two people instantly and caused extensive damage to the Gombe and Yobe States pavilions, as well as several business tents within the trade fair complex. Two other injured victims later died at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH).

The Bauchi Police Command’s spokesman, SP Ahmed Wakil, confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday. He identified the deceased as Abdullahi Abubakar, 38, of Yakubu Wanka; Sadik Ahmed Alfa, 32, of Fadaman Mada; Malam Musa from Maliya Furnitures Tudun Salmanu; and Abdulaziz Abdulrahman from Gombe State. One individual, Fatima Isa, 31, of Inkil, is currently receiving medical treatment and showing signs of recovery.

In response to the incident, emergency teams led by the police and other security agencies quickly initiated search and rescue operations.

The statement reads: “Tragically, five individuals were found under the fallen structures and were promptly taken to the hospital.

“However, one individual, Fatima Isa ‘F’ 31 years of Inkil, is currently receiving medical treatment and showing positive signs of recovery.

“The authorities have taken the necessary steps, including depositing the deceased individuals at the mortuary, to address the aftermath of the storm.

“Efforts are underway to assess the extent of property damage caused by the storm. To ensure public safety, a police presence is being maintained at the square to prevent criminal activities in the wake of this unfortunate event.”

The authorities have taken steps to address the aftermath of the storm, including depositing the deceased individuals at the mortuary. Efforts are underway to assess the extent of property damage caused by the storm, and a police presence is being maintained at the square to prevent criminal activities.

The North East Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mine, and Agriculture organized the trade fair, supported by the six states of the region. Nigeria’s Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, inaugurated the 15th Edition of the Joint Domestic Trade Fair in Bauchi on May 18, 2024.