It was a tragic incident yesterday, as four big trees fell at Jattu Market in Etsako West Local Council of Edo State, killing four persons and injuring others in the process.

The trees came down following a storm and prolonged rainfall. Chairman of the Local Council, Mr Marvelous Zibiri, confirmed the death of the persons while speaking to newsmen at the market.

He said: “At about 9:00a.m. on Monday, I got a call from my vice chairman and the supervisory councilor for the environment about the incident.

“During the rain, four trees in the market fell simultaneously when people took cover under them, thereby killing four persons and injuring many.

”So far, we have been able to recover four bodies, and we have taken them to the mortuary while those who sustained injuries are at the hospital for treatment.” Zibiri added that rescue operation was still ongoing as the trees were being cut to confirm if there were other bodies under them.

The Council Chairman described the incident as tragic and sympathised with families who lost their loved ones at the market. He, however, appealed to residents to stay indoors whenever it is raining.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had predicted thunderstorms and rains from Monday to Wednesday across the country.The agency urged the public to take adequate precautions as strong winds may precede the rains during the period.