No fewer than 500 houses were destroyed when a rainstorm swept through Itobe District in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday night.
Properties worth millions of naira, including schools, health centres, electric poles, churches, and mosques, were also damaged, while several residents sustained injuries, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The Ejeh of Ofu, Alhaji 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.
Obaje noted that six villages were severely affected, including Itobe, Adumu, Oladebu, Ajegwu, and Itagidi.
“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 monarch appealed to the government, corporate organisations, and compassionate Nigerians to intervene 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 traditional ruler lamented the scale of destruction across six villages, including Itobe, Adumu, Oladebu, Ajegwu, and Itagidi in Ofu.
“The scene is chaotic, with roofs torn off buildings, trees uprooted, and power lines snapped.
