Severe Rainstorm Wreaks Havoc In Ekiti State, Damaging Hundreds Of Homes

A devastating rainstorm swept through Ekiti State between March 5 and March 6, causing significant destruction to homes and public infrastructure across multiple local government areas. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed that the affected regions include Moba, Ijero, Ado, and Ekiti East local government areas.

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Hundreds of Homes and Public Infrastructure Affected

Following the disaster, officials from NEMA and the Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) visited the affected communities to assess the level of destruction. The assessment team, led by ACSARO Abogunrin Adesina for NEMA and Alhaji Ademola Bello for SEMA, was joined by representatives from the Red Cross and local community leaders.

The evaluation revealed widespread damage to residential buildings and essential public facilities, including electric poles, schools, and places of worship. The extent of the destruction in each local government area was alarming:

• Ijero Local Government Area: 136 buildings were partially damaged, while 64 rooftops were completely blown off, affecting 497 households.
• Moba Local Government Area: 41 houses suffered partial roof damage, and 16 were completely destroyed, impacting 157 households.
• Ekiti East Local Government Area: 69 buildings were partially damaged, and 24 had their rooftops entirely torn off, affecting 263 households.
• Ado Local Government Area: 87 houses were partially destroyed, with 59 rooftops completely blown away.

In total, 496 buildings and 1,227 households were affected by the storm.

Officials Commend Zero Casualty Record Despite Extensive Damage

Despite the massive destruction caused by the storm, no casualties were reported. NEMA officials expressed relief that no lives were lost but acknowledged the significant disruption faced by affected families. Many residents have been left homeless, with some seeking temporary shelter in churches, schools, and with relatives.

While the full cost of the damage is yet to be determined, emergency response teams are already mobilizing relief efforts. NEMA has assured victims that immediate intervention plans, including the provision of temporary shelter materials, food, and medical aid, are being developed.

Government Urged to Provide Urgent Relief and Infrastructure Repairs

Community leaders and affected residents have called on both the Ekiti State Government and the Federal Government to provide urgent relief and support for rebuilding efforts. Many have also urged authorities to invest in better infrastructure to withstand extreme weather conditions, as climate change continues to increase the frequency of such disasters.

The Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency has urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions during the ongoing rainy season. In the meantime, assessments are continuing to determine the full impact of the storm and the level of assistance needed to help affected communities recover.