A rainstorm has wreaked havoc in the Iyara community, headquarters of Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, destroying hundreds of houses and rendering 1000 persons homeless.

The incident occurred on Monday, according to locals, who added that many affected families are now seeking refuge with neighbours, relatives, or friends.

The paramount ruler of Iyara, Oba Jacob Meduteni, expressed sadness over the disaster, noting the significant number of people now homeless due to the storm. He appealed to affluent individuals and organisations to assist the victims during this difficult time.

Alhaji Aliyu Badaki, the National President of the Iyara Development Association (IDA), said over 1000 individuals have been affected.

He described the scale of destruction as substantial, especially given the economic challenges facing the country, making it difficult for the victims to recover on their own.

In a plea for assistance, Adebayo Bamisaiye, a victim of the rainstorm, mentioned that such a severe storm had not occurred in the community for many years.

“The cost of rebuilding is daunting, considering the current economic situation in the country, making it challenging for many to rebuild their homes anytime soon,” he said. (Daily Trust)

•Windstorm blew roofs off Father Joseph Memoriah High School, Aguleri. The school shelters internally displaced people. Photo by Titus Eleweke