By Correspondent.
A fire outbreak has consumed the iconic rice mill in Ega-Idah, the headquarters of Idah Local Government Area, Kogi State.
The tragedy unfolded around 3 a.m.in the early hours of Thursday,following a mysterious explosion that shattered the pre-dawn silence of the community.
The mill, sources said is a joint venture established by two lifelong friends, the late Muhammed and Amodu, had long served as a lifeline for local farmers and rice merchants from Idah and neighboring Ibaji communities.
According to them,Its destruction marks a crippling blow to their livelihoods and the local economy.
A security guard on duty recounted hearing a faint sound, akin to a matchstick being struck, which was quickly followed by a spark and an explosion.
In moments, flames engulfed the structure, leaving little time for intervention.
The Reporters gathered that absence of electricity at the time further compounded the challenge of identifying any potential culprits or cause of the fire.
“This is the peak season for our business, and this incident is a severe setback,” lamented Musa, a rice merchant from Idah, visibly distressed by the loss.
Valued at over N200 million, the mill had been a hub of activity, especially during the festive season, when demand for rice soars.
The people of the affected said the impact of the fire goes beyond the financial loss, adding that it also constitute threat to the stability of countless families who depend on the mill for their sustenance.
“We are staring at a bleak holiday season,” Musa added, his voice heavy with despair.
The Police Public Relations Officer(PPRO),for the Police Command in the state ,SP William Ayah who confirmed the story in a telephone interview with our correspondent on Sunday said that he was yet to get the details of the disaster.
He promised to furnish The Reporters as soon as he gets the necessary information about the incident.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
