Midnight Horror at Awhum Market: Massive Tree Collapse Leaves Several Dead, Dozens Injured in Enugu

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A quiet evening at Awhum Market turned into a scene of devastation late Wednesday night after a massive tree suddenly collapsed, killing several people and injuring many others in one of the deadliest incidents to hit the community in recent years.

The tragedy reportedly occurred around 10:30 p.m. as traders were closing their stalls and others prepared for the next market day. Eyewitnesses said a loud cracking sound pierced the air moments before the decades-old tree gave way, crashing down on makeshift stalls, parked vehicles, and unsuspecting individuals beneath it.

Panic erupted instantly.

Emergency responders, including the Enugu State Fire Service, the Federal Road Safety Corps, police officers, and local volunteers, rushed to the scene. Working under floodlights through the night, rescue teams used chainsaws and heavy equipment to cut through thick branches while others searched manually for survivors trapped under the wreckage.

As of Thursday morning, authorities had yet to release an official casualty figure, but local sources confirmed multiple fatalities and several critically injured victims who were transported to nearby hospitals. Rescue operations were still ongoing at the time of this report, with emergency officials striving to account for all missing persons.

Residents expressed anger and frustration, claiming the tree had been visibly leaning and posing a risk for years. Some community members alleged that warnings had been raised about its condition, but no preventive action was taken.

Awhum Market is one of the busiest commercial centers in the area, often active late into the night. The timing of the collapse meant many traders and customers were still present, amplifying the scale of the disaster.

Authorities have cordoned off the area and urged the public to stay clear to allow uninterrupted rescue efforts. Governor Peter Mbah is expected to address the public as pressure mounts for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Beyond the immediate loss, the tragedy has reignited concerns about environmental safety and routine hazard assessments in public spaces across Nigeria. Community leaders are calling for urgent inspections of aging trees and infrastructure in markets to prevent similar catastrophes.

For families in Awhum and surrounding communities, the focus remains on recovery, accountability, and ensuring such a disaster does not happen again.

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as official figures and statements are released.