A devastating fire broke out early on Thursday morning, destroying a rice mill in Ega-Idah, the administrative headquarters of Idah Local Government Area in Kogi State.
The fire, which erupted around 3:00 a.m., was reportedly preceded by a loud explosion that was heard throughout the surrounding area, according to reports from Naija News.
The rice mill, which was a joint venture between two friends—one of whom, Muhammed, is now deceased—was a critical facility for local farmers and rice traders not only in Idah but also in the nearby Ibaji communities. It played an essential role in the region’s agricultural supply chain, particularly in rice production and distribution.
A security guard on duty at the time of the incident described hearing a sound similar to a match being struck, followed by a spark and a powerful explosion that quickly engulfed the mill. However, the lack of electricity in the area at the time made it difficult to ascertain the cause of the explosion or identify any potential suspects, as noted by the guard.
Musa, a local rice merchant from Idah, expressed the immense impact the fire has had on the local business community. “This is the peak season for our business, and this incident is a severe setback,” he told Daily Trust. Musa highlighted that the mill, which was valued at over ₦200 million, was an important economic asset for the region. The destruction of the mill will have significant ripple effects on the local economy, particularly at a time when the demand for rice is high due to the approaching festive season.
The fire’s timing, during a period of peak demand for rice, has raised concerns about the livelihood of local farmers and traders, who are now facing an unexpected disruption during their busiest time of year. Despite efforts to reach Kogi State’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Williams Aya, for further comments, his phone line was not accessible, leaving many questions about the investigation into the cause of the fire unanswered.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of local businesses to accidents and emergencies, underscoring the need for improved security and infrastructure, especially in areas dependent on small- and medium-sized enterprises that contribute significantly to the local economy.
