Saturday 18 May 2013

Giant Ancient Tree Falls In Imo State, Kills Over 50 People

Tragedy struck the people of Umudagu, Mbieri Community, Mbaitoli in Imo State, when a giant ancient tree fell on Thursday May 16th, killing over 50 people. The Osisi Ukwu Uko, (a location of a popular night market) estimated to have been in existence for over 200 years, fell around 8pm in the night, following a heavy rainstorm, collapsing on buildings, traders selling their wares in the market, their customers, and some passers-by. Many were said to be critically injured and are being treated at the hospital.

The night market known as “Ukwu Uko market” meaning the market under the ‘Uko’ tree usually runs from 3pm till about 9.30pm/10pm everyday.

The tree, had been a source of concern to the youths of the village for many years who had repeatedly called for its removal, but the community elders refused to cut it down, describing it as an ancestral landmark that should not be removed. So sad, may those who lost their precious lives R.I.P....Amen. See more photos after the cut...



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