A devastating rainstorm accompanied by strong winds claimed the lives of four traders and inflicting significant damage at the IBB Square, the site of the recently concluded North East Trade Fair in Bauchi State.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday night, also led to several injuries, with one individual currently in recovery.
The Bauchi Police Command confirmed the fatalities and provided details through their spokesman, SP Ahmed Wakil.
The deceased were identified 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.
Additionally, Fatima Isa, 31, of Inkil, was reported to be receiving medical treatment with positive signs of recovery at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital.
The storm wreaked havoc on the pavilions of Gombe and Yobe States and destroyed numerous business tents within the trade fair complex.
Following the storm, emergency response teams, including police and other security agencies, conducted search and rescue operations, which swiftly hospitalized the injured parties.
