Bauchi Metropolis experienced a severe rainstorm accompanied by strong winds on Saturday which significantly impacted the IBB Square, the venue for the recently concluded North East Trade Fair. Notably, the Gombe and Yobe States pavilions, along with several business tents within the trade fair complex, suffered considerable damage.
This was contained in a statement released by the Bauchi State police command’s public relations officer, SP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil on Sunday.
He stated that emergency response teams led by the police and other security agencies quickly initiated search and rescue operations following the incident.
According to him, five individuals were discovered beneath the collapsed structures and were promptly transported to the hospital. Sadly, four of these individuals, including Abdullahi Abubakar (38 years old, from Yakubu Wanka), Sadik Ahmed Alfa (32 years old, from Fadaman Mada), Malam Musa (from Maliya Furnitures, Tudun Salmanu), and Abdulaziz Abdurrahman (from Gombe, Gombe State), lost their lives. However, one individual, Fatima Isa (31 years old, from Inkil), is currently receiving medical treatment and showing positive signs of recovery.
He also said the authorities have taken the necessary measures, including depositing the deceased at the mortuary, to manage the aftermath of the storm.
“Additionally, efforts are underway to assess the extent of the property damage caused by the storm,” he said.
“To ensure public safety, a police presence is being maintained at the square to prevent any potential criminal activities following this unfortunate event.”
