Residents and traders in Sai and Abagi communities in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State have raised alarm after the Adigba Market, a newly opened community market, was reportedly set ablaze over the weekend.
Witnesses alleged that men believed to be members of the armed forces carried out the attack, destroying stalls and goods belonging to several traders.
Adigba Market, located between Sai and Abako communities in Katsina-Ala LGA, was recently opened by the council chairman, Justin Shaku, to boost local commerce and provide traders with a safe trading space.
Residents said tension began on Friday night when armed personnel reportedly entered the market during a routine patrol.
According to eyewitness accounts, the soldiers arrived in three Hilux vans accompanied by several motorcycles while traders and youths were watching a football match at the market.
“They flashed torchlight around the market and searched the area but did not find anything before leaving,” a resident said.
However, at about 4 am the following morning, the armed men allegedly returned and set the entire market on fire.
One trader said the incident has left many business owners devastated.
“We were watching the Chelsea match here at night when they came with vehicles and bikes.
“They checked around and left. But around 4 am, they came back and burnt the whole market,” the witness recounted.
Efforts to confirm the incident from the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, were not successful as at the time of this report.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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