An alarming incident of electrocution has rocked Mowe Market in the Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals, including a mother and her child.
The devastating occurrence unfolded on Monday, following the restoration of power after a heavy downpour experienced on Sunday.
During a visit to the market on Wednesday, Ambassador Adesina Ogunsola, Chairman of the Local Government, issued a stern seven-day notice to all traders occupying shops and stalls beneath the high-tension powerline. This decisive action aims to prevent the recurrence of such a tragic event.
Eyewitnesses narrated that the source of the electric shock was traced to a step-down transformer suspended on an electrical pole adjacent to the shop where the incident unfolded. The victims, who were shop owners preparing for their daily sales, suffered severe burns beyond recognition.
Segun Soneye, Director of Information at the Obafemi Owode Local Government, confirmed the incident, attributing it to the construction of makeshift iron shops beneath the powerline by traders.
During his visit to the market, Ogunsola extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families, lamenting the negligent attitude of individuals who disregard safety protocols by establishing shops near electrical poles carrying step-down transformers.
In response to the grave incident, Ogunsola promptly issued an order for traders with shops and stalls situated under the powerline to vacate the premises within seven days. He stressed the imperative of compliance with safety regulations, particularly concerning structures erected near high-tension cables.
Police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, corroborated the incident, confirming that Ujuwa Okechukwu, the mother, was the sole fatality in the tragic occurrence.