Olusegun Ariyo
The Village Head of Njegbeje Village in the Igodor Community, Nkum Iborr Ward of Ogoja Local Government Area, Ogoja LGA of Cross River State, Chief Matthew Igrami Egbor, has lamented that the severe impact of last weekend’s windstorms destroyed several buildings, farm crops, and economic trees, as well as displaced hundreds of his natives and non-natives.
He spoke to newsmen, describing the windstorm as a peculiar disaster, adding that it is the worst natural incident in the community’s history.
He said the windstorm is likened to a mini-tsunami, stating that it has done heavy devastation to his community.
He lamented that the windstorm had disrupted the lives and livelihoods of his subjects, calling on the authorities to help.
The village head said, “This disaster took us completely by surprise.
“Homes, farms, and our economic trees were all swept away. Many of us are now sleeping on bare ground under makeshift shelters.
“Starvation and homelessness are setting in. This is the worst natural incident.”
He appealed to all relevant government bodies and humanitarian organisations to come to their aid swiftly, stressing that the community is in desperate need of food, shelter, and medical assistance.
Undertaking an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected communities, the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Christopher Agbeh, appealed to the state and federal authorities and relevant emergency agencies to urgently come to the aid of victims affected by the windstorm.
The Chairman disclosed that the windstorm has left hundreds homeless, and the losses in property and economic crops are worth over a billion Naira.
Agbeh described the event as a “monumental and unnatural disaster,” emphasising the urgent need for immediate intervention to restore normalcy to the affected community.
“This is a tragic situation that requires swift action from both the State and Federal Governments.”
He assured that relief materials and support for the rebuilding of homes will be provided.
