Final answer:
The Umuru market could be empty due to time of day, as markets usually quiet down after peak hours. Seasonal fluctuations and historical parallels to issues like climate change impacting market activity are also possible factors to consider.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Umuru market might be so empty for a variety of reasons. In typical West African markets, which are bustling and vibrant, the activity level depends on numerous factors. These can include the time of day, as markets are generally more active during peak hours and tend to quiet down post-market hours when vendors pack up. A significant drop in activity could also be due to seasonal fluctuations, where certain times of the year are slower due to holidays or agricultural patterns.
Drawing parallels with historical instances, such as the fall of Mapungubwe due to a series of intense droughts that led to land infertility and dwindling resources, could offer insight. If this market's region experienced similar dramatic climate changes or environmental conditions, it could significantly impact the market's activity level. However, it's vital to understand the current context of Umuru's market situation to identify the specific causes of its emptiness.