Ogun, Nigeria: Tragedy struck the Mowe market in the Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, leaving a mother, her son, and another individual electrocuted.
The incident occurred on Monday, sending shockwaves through the community and highlighting the dangers lurking in the aftermath of a rainstorm.
Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing scene, detailing how an electric spark, following the restoration of power by the electricity distribution company after Sunday’s rainstorm, engulfed the market.
The fatal electric shock originated from a step-down transformer suspended on an electrical pole adjacent to the shop where the incident unfolded, catching shop owners unaware as they prepared for another day of sales.
“A female trader, her son, and another person fell victim to the electric surge, while four others sustained injuries,” revealed a witness, speaking under the condition of anonymity.
The horror was compounded by the grim fate of the female trader, whose body was reportedly burnt into ashes, leaving a haunting reminder of the merciless force of electricity.
Segun Soneye, the Director of Information of Obafemi Owode Local Government, confirmed the heart-wrenching incident, offering insights into the grim aftermath.
Soneye attributed the tragedy to the erection of shops made of iron beneath the powerline by the traders, pointing to a dangerous disregard for safety regulations.
In response to the calamity, Lanre Ogunsola, the Council Chairman, wasted no time in extending condolences to the affected shop owners, recognizing the urgent need for preventive measures.
Ogunsola’s visit to the scene was marked by a resolve to address the root cause, as he issued a stern seven-day ultimatum for the evacuation of makeshift shops constructed under the high-tension powerline, aimed at averting future disasters.
The gravity of the situation prompted the council boss to extend support beyond mere words, as he ensured that victims receiving treatment at Mowe Health Post were guaranteed quality medical care.
Assurances were made that all medical expenses would be borne by the government, offering a glimmer of hope amid the dark cloud of despair hovering over the community.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, questions loom over the adequacy of safety measures and the accountability of stakeholders entrusted with public welfare.
The loss of lives serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for stringent enforcement of safety protocols and proactive measures to safeguard against similar catastrophes in the future.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Mowe market stands as a somber testament to the fragility of life and the profound impact of negligence.
Yet, amidst the grief and anguish, there remains a collective resolve to honor the memory of the fallen by ensuring that their sacrifice sparks meaningful change, ushering in a future where safety reigns supreme, and tragedies of this magnitude become relics of the past.
The hearts of the community mourn the loss of lives, even as they unite in solidarity, determined to forge a path towards a safer, more resilient tomorrow.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
