By Toyin Saheed and Dare Akogun
Two persons reportedly died on the spot as a major branch of a big tree fell on passers-by, shop owners, and commuters awaiting commercial vehicles beside BRAVO filling station opposite Oke Andi junction, Sango area of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.
Our correspondents who visited the scene gathered that the incident, which happened early Monday morning, affected seven persons who sustained varying degrees of injury.
It was gathered that members of the community use the base of the tree as stalls, while commuters also use it as a spot to board commercial vehicles.
One of the eyewitnesses said that victims, who were initially moved to nearby private hospitals, were eventually evacuated to the General Hospital, Ilorin.
He added that the condition of another victim, who was moved to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), was stable and responding to treatment.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Okasanmi Ajayi, and the State Commissioner for Health, Amina El-Imam, confirmed the incident. However, the governor’s aide confirmed that one person died.
“Seven persons were affected and rushed to the hospital. Two eventually died and others are still undergoing treatment.
“Investigation on the case is ongoing. Details of the investigation would be made available as soon as it is concluded,” the police spokesperson said.
The health commissioner commiserated with the community members, assuring the public of the government’s commitment to their well-being while praying for the speedy recovery of all the affected victims.
