Over 50 people are feared dead and a yet to be
ascertained number were critically injured when a tall tree known as Osisi
Ukwu Uko, collapsed on buildings, as well as those transacting their
business in a market located under the tree on Thursday May 16th.
The tree, which has been in existence for over 200 years,
fell during a heavy rainstorm around 8pm Thursday night. Some victims who didn't
die were severely injured and are being treated at the hospital.
According to reports, people in the community had for many years called for the
removal of the tree over safety concerns but the community elders refused to
chop the tree down arguing that it was an ancestral landmark. The
devastating rainstorm, which started at about 6pm on the fateful day, continued
through the night and spilled over to the morning hours of friday.
Some of the places damaged by the fallen tree
included a segment the market stalls, the town hall and some private buildings
located close to the tree.
Pictures Courtesy Vanguard
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