TRANSFORMER EXPLOSION BURNS 3 SHOPS AT ALIADE MAIN MARKET. (PHOTO).

 TRANSFORMER EXPLOSION BURNS 3 SHOPS AT ALIADE MAIN MARKET 

A transformer explosion at the entrance of Aliade Main Market in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State has destroyed three shops, causing panic among traders and residents in the area.

The incident occurred on Friday morning when the electricity transformer suddenly blew up, triggering a fire outbreak that quickly spread to nearby shops within the busy market vicinity.

Eyewitnesses said the explosion was followed by thick smoke and flames, forcing traders and passersby to flee for safety as the fire intensified. Efforts were reportedly made by residents and shop owners to contain the blaze and stop it from spreading to other businesses around the market.

Three shops were affected in the incident, including two provision stores and a phone charging unit.

The charging unit shop, owned by Mr. Nicodemus Anula, was completely burnt in the fire, alongside goods and equipment inside the affected shops.

Although the fire caused significant damage to property, no casualties were reported as of the time of filing this report.

Traders and residents have expressed concern over the proximity of the transformer to commercial stalls, calling on relevant authorities and electricity distribution companies to urgently inspect power installations in the market to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.