A devastating rainstorm swept through Itobe District in the Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday night, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
The disaster destroyed over 500 houses, leaving many families without shelter.
Property worth millions of naira were destroyed, as schools, health centres, electric poles, churches and mosques were destroyed, while several residents sustained injuries.
Speaking on the incident, the Ejeh of Ofu, Akwu Obaje, called for urgent assistance for the victims and described the level of damage as “disheartening.”
The traditional ruler lamented the scale of destruction in six villages, including Itobe, Adumu, Oladebu, Ajegwu, and Itagidi in Ofu.
“The scene is chaotic, with roofs torn off buildings, trees uprooted, and power lines snapped.
“The destruction caused by the rainstorm has left many families without shelter, and the community is in dire need of support.
“The government and well-to-do individuals must respond promptly to provide relief to the victims and help them rebuild their lives.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Itobe district during this difficult time,” Obaje said.
The royal father, therefore, appealed to the government, corporate organisations, and well-meaning individuals to intervene urgently and provide relief to affected families.
“I urge the government and compassionate Nigerians to help restore hope to those who have lost their homes and means of livelihood,” he reiterated.
The storm, which brought fierce winds and torrential rains, left residents in dire need of shelter, medical aid, and food supplies.
Many families are now struggling to find safety, with children and the elderly particularly vulnerable.
Some of the victims, who spoke to our correspondent, Mr Atabo Okolo from Oladebu, Momoh Alifiya from Adumu, and Usman Gene from Itobe-Niniya, all appealed for immediate assistance to cushion the devastating effects of the disaster.
“We need immediate intervention to rebuild our lives, because the destruction has further worsens the hardship we are facing due to economic challenges in the country. We are now looking to the state and federal governments for swift action,” Okolo said.
On his part, Gene said, ” We are pleading with the government and relevant agencies to work together to provide support for us and our communities to enable us to recover from the disasters.”
