Olusegun Ariyo
Inhabitants of Ofu settlement never had cause to evisage that a calamity of this magnitude would befall them until a rainstorm destroyed more than 500 houses, swept through the Itobe District in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Properties worth millions of naira, including schools, health centres, electric poles, churches, and mosques, were also damaged, while several residents sustained injuries.
The rain has also rendered many families homeless.
Speaking on the incident on Thursday, March 27, the Ejeh of Ofu, Alh. Akwu Obaje, described the damage as “disheartening” and called for urgent assistance for the victims.
“The scene is chaotic, with roofs torn off buildings, trees uprooted, and power lines snapped,” he said.
“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.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Itobe District during this difficult time,” he added.
The royal father appealed to the government, corporate organisations, and compassionate Nigerians to intervene swiftly and provide relief materials to affected families.
“I urge the government and kind-hearted individuals to help restore hope to those who have lost their homes and means of livelihood,” he reiterated.
The storm, which came with fierce winds and torrential rains, has left residents in dire need of shelter, medical aid, and food supplies, as children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
Some of the victims who spoke, including Mr. Atabo Okolo from Oladebu, Momoh Alifiya from Adumu, and Usman Gene from Itobe-Niniya, appealed for urgent assistance.
Okolo said, “We need immediate intervention to rebuild our lives because this destruction has worsened the hardship we are already facing due to the economic challenges in the country.
“We are now looking to the State and Federal Governments for swift action,” he added.
On his part, Gene pleaded: “We are urging the government and relevant agencies to work together to support us and help our communities recover from this disaster.”
With the rainy season just beginning, the threat of further devastation looms over the affected areas, underscoring the urgency for swift intervention.
Authorities are urged to implement robust solutions to assist victims and mitigate future risks.
