A devastating fire engulfed a rice mill in Ega-Idah, the administrative hub of Idah Local Government Area, Kogi State, during the early hours of Thursday.
According to reports, the fire started around 3:00 a.m. after an explosion that shook the surrounding area.
The rice mill, a joint venture established by two friends, the late Muhammed and Amodu, was a vital resource for farmers and rice traders in Idah and the neighboring Ibaji communities.
A security guard on duty recounted hearing a sound similar to a match being struck, followed by a spark and an explosion that quickly consumed the mill.
He noted that the lack of electricity at the time hindered efforts to identify any suspects.
“This is the peak season for our business, and this incident is a major setback,” said Musa, a rice merchant from Idah, speaking to Daily Trust.
He explained that the loss of the mill, estimated to be worth over ₦200 million, would severely impact the local economy, especially during the festive season when demand for rice is at its highest.
Attempts to reach the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Williams Aya, for comments were unsuccessful, as his phone line was unreachable.
