…Countless Bags of Rice, Milling Machines, De-Stoners, Polishers Destroyed

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

A mysterious fire has razed part of the Wurukum Rice Mill at Makurdi Bridge Head, destroying several processing machines and countless bags of rice.

The inferno, which broke out around 10 p.m. on Sunday when traders had closed for the day, was reportedly caused by an electrical spark. The timely intervention of the Benue State Fire Service prevented the fire from spreading to the entire market and the nearby timber market.

One of the affected traders, Mrs. Mercy Hanmaikyur, lamented her loss, stating that she started her business in December 2023 with over N10 million. “I have lost everything to the fire,” she said. She appealed to Governor Hyacinth Alia for assistance, revealing that her three milling machines, de-stoning machines, polisher, and bags of rice were all destroyed.

The Chairman of Wurukum Rice Mill Market, Terva Igyar, confirmed that, in addition to the burnt shops, a motorcycle, about six milling machines, and several bags of rice were lost to the inferno. He added that an assessment was underway to determine the extent of the damage and seek government support.

Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, for comments were unsuccessful.