Rainstorm Destroys Over 500 Homes in Kogi, Residents Seek Urgent Aid

Gene echoed the plea, urging the Kogi State government and relevant agencies to collaborate in providing immediate assistance to the affected communities.

Kogi State, Nigeria – A violent rainstorm tore through Itobe District in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday night, leaving extensive destruction in its wake. Over 500 houses were damaged, forcing many families out of their homes and worsening the hardship in the area.

The storm, accompanied by fierce winds and torrential rain, wreaked havoc across six villages, including Itobe, Adumu, Oladebu, Ajegwu, and Itagidi. Schools, healthcare centres, places of worship, and electricity infrastructure were severely affected, while several residents sustained injuries.

Traditional ruler, Ejeh of Ofu, Akwu Obaje, described the devastation as overwhelming and called for immediate intervention. He emphasized the urgent need for government agencies, corporate bodies, and individuals to step in and support the affected families.

“The level of destruction is heartbreaking. Many families have been left without shelter, and the community is in dire need of relief,” he lamented.

Residents, still in shock over the disaster, recounted their losses and appealed for help. Atabo Okolo from Oladebu, Momoh Alifiya from Adumu, and Usman Gene from Itobe-Niniya urged the authorities to provide urgent relief to alleviate their suffering.

“We have lost everything. This disaster has worsened the economic hardship we are already facing. We plead with the state and federal governments to act swiftly and help us rebuild our lives,” Okolo stated.

Gene echoed the plea, urging the Kogi State government and relevant agencies to collaborate in providing immediate assistance to the affected communities.

With displaced families, damaged infrastructure, and power lines down, the need for swift intervention is critical. Many residents are struggling to find shelter, food, and medical aid, with children and the elderly particularly vulnerable.

Community leaders and residents are hopeful that the government and humanitarian organizations will respond promptly to restore hope and normalcy to the disaster-stricken area.