A powerful rainstorm tore through Itobe District in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday night, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The storm, which battered six villages, destroyed no fewer than 500 houses, displacing families and causing severe damage to critical infrastructure, including schools, health centres, electric poles, churches, and mosques.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), properties worth millions of naira were lost, while several residents sustained injuries. The Ejeh of Ofu, Alhaji Akwu Obaje, described the destruction as “disheartening” and called for urgent intervention from the government and well-meaning individuals.
Extent of Damage and Calls for Assistance
“The scene is chaotic, with roofs torn off buildings, trees uprooted, and power lines snapped,” Obaje lamented. He confirmed that six villages—Itobe, Adumu, Oladebu, Ajegwu, and Itagidi—were among the worst hit.
“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-meaning individuals must respond promptly to provide relief to the victims and help them rebuild their lives,” he added.
The monarch urged the government, corporate organizations, and philanthropic Nigerians to provide relief materials, including food, shelter, and medical aid, to affected families.
Urgent Need for Humanitarian Response
The disaster has disrupted economic and social activities in the affected areas, leaving many homeless. Residents fear prolonged hardship if swift action is not taken to mitigate the impact.
The Kogi State government has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but pressure is mounting for immediate intervention.
This latest disaster adds to the growing concerns over extreme weather conditions in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.
