No fewer than 80 buildings, including schools and churches, have been destroyed following a devastating windstorm that struck Ukete Oduma in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, leaving hundreds of residents homeless.
The incident, described by locals as unprecedented, also led to the loss of property valued at millions of naira.
The storm reportedly uprooted electric poles, destroyed economic trees and killed several livestock, compounding the hardship faced by residents.
A visit to the community revealed scenes of distress, as affected residents struggled to salvage belongings drenched by rainwater.
The traditional ruler of Ukete Oduma, Igwe Patrick Oshiekwe, described the incident as catastrophic, likening it to a hurricane, and appealed for urgent assistance from government and relevant stakeholders.
His palace has since been converted into a temporary shelter for displaced residents, many of whom have been forced out of their homes.
“Since I was born, I have never witnessed anything like this. Within a short time, most houses in the community were destroyed, leaving many without shelter,” the monarch said.
He called on the Enugu State Government, led by Governor Peter Mbah, as well as other political representatives and well-meaning individuals, to provide relief materials and support for affected victims.
Oshiekwe noted that the situation could worsen due to ongoing rainfall and the absence of some property owners who reside outside the community.
Also speaking, the President-General of the community, Jeremiah Njoku, expressed shock over the scale of destruction, describing it as the worst disaster in the area’s history.
While expressing gratitude that no lives were lost, Njoku urged authorities to intervene urgently to alleviate the suffering of residents.
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“You can see the level of destruction. This is beyond what the community can handle. Our people need immediate assistance,” he said.
Some victims, including Ernest Nweze and Ifeanyichukwu Akuatuegwu, lamented the loss of their homes and livelihoods, appealing for support to rebuild their lives.
