Residents of Ijero Ekiti are beginning the arduous task of salvaging their belongings after a catastrophic rainstorm ripped through the community on Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction that has displaced hundreds and levelled critical infrastructure. The disaster, which lasted for over two hours, has prompted an emergency response from the state government and a pledge of immediate financial and logistical intervention.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji, expressing deep grief over the incident, dispatched a high-level delegation on Thursday to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the wreckage. Officials confirmed that the torrential downpour and accompanying windstorm destroyed more than 200 buildings, ranging from private residences and religious centres to public institutions and market stalls. Current estimates suggest that over 500 residents have been rendered homeless, forcing many to seek refuge in the homes of neighbours and relatives.
The Ekiti State Governor, represented by his Deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye, toured the affected areas and described the level of destruction as heartbreaking. During the inspection, the Deputy Governor observed numerous structures that had been reduced to relics, with roofs blown off and walls collapsed. Despite the scale of the property damage, officials expressed relief that no lives were lost during the weather event.
Governor Oyebanji stated that he was particularly pained by the surge in the number of victims who are now facing displacement. He assured the community that the State Emergency Management Agency has been mandated to begin an immediate enumeration of the affected property. This process is intended to ensure that every verified victim receives the necessary support to rebuild their homes and businesses.
The Governor further disclosed that his administration has already expended over ₦300 million within the past year to support victims of fire and rainstorm disasters across the state. He emphasised that the government would not abandon the people of Ijero Ekiti in their time of need. However, he also issued a call for preventive measures, urging homeowners to embrace tree planting and conduct annual maintenance on their buildings to serve as a buffer against future environmental hazards.
The educational sector was not spared, as the Ekiti State College of Technology in Ijero Ekiti suffered significant damage. The Rector of the institution, Dr Moses Olufemi Olubamise, reported that five buildings and several ongoing construction projects were battered by the storm.
The Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole, described the storm as one of the most devastating in recent memory. The monarch revealed that virtually every street in the town felt the impact of the destructive waves. He commended the state government for its prompt visitation, noting that the presence of the Governor’s representatives provided a sense of hope to those who lost everything.