A powerful rainstorm swept through Itobe District in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday night, leaving widespread devastation in its wake.
According to The PUNCH, the storm destroyed more than 500 houses, displacing numerous families and damaging critical infrastructure.
Schools, health centers, electric poles, churches, and mosques were among the properties affected, with losses estimated in millions of naira.
Several residents sustained injuries, while many are now in urgent need of shelter and assistance.
Speaking on the disaster, the Ejeh of Ofu, Akwu Obaje, described the level of destruction as heartbreaking and called for immediate relief efforts.
“The scene is distressing—roofs have been ripped off buildings, trees uprooted, and power lines brought down,” he lamented.
“Families have been left without shelter, and the situation is dire. The government and well-meaning individuals must act swiftly to provide relief and help the victims rebuild their lives.”
Obaje highlighted that six villages, including Itobe, Adumu, Oladebu, Ajegwu, and Itagidi, were severely impacted. He urged both government authorities and private organizations to intervene and support affected families.
“I appeal to the government and compassionate Nigerians to come to the aid of those who have lost their homes and livelihood,” he added.
Residents of the affected communities are now struggling with immediate survival needs, including food, medical care, and safe accommodation.
Some victims shared their distress, emphasizing the urgent need for help. Atabo Okolo, a resident of Oladebu, said, “The destruction has worsened our hardship, and we desperately need assistance to rebuild. We are looking to the state and federal governments for swift intervention.”
Similarly, Usman Gene from Itobe-Niniya pleaded for coordinated efforts to support the affected communities.
“We are calling on the government and relevant agencies to work together and help us recover from this disaster,” he said.
