The Ekiti State Government has dispatched a response team to assess the destruction caused by a powerful rainstorm that struck several communities in Ekiti East Local Government Area, including Omuo, Iworo, and Isaya, last Monday. The severe weather event led to widespread damage to homes, public buildings, and infrastructure.
Leading the on-site evaluation was the General Manager of the Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency (EKSEMA), Mr. Oludare Asaolu, who visited the affected areas to determine the extent of the damage and coordinate immediate relief efforts.
Asaolu extended the state government’s sympathy to the victims, stating that Governor Biodun Oyebanji had ordered a prompt and thorough on-the-spot assessment to fast-track assistance and begin repairs. Over 60 residential buildings reportedly had their roofs torn off, while numerous other structures were significantly impacted by the storm.
Fortunately, no lives were lost, a fact Asaolu described as a “relief amid devastation.” He attributed the growing frequency of such extreme weather conditions to global climate change, highlighting the importance of tree planting and the preservation of forests to mitigate environmental risks. He also warned against deforestation, noting its contribution to worsening climate-related disasters.
EKSEMA will conduct a full damage assessment and enumeration to guide the government in delivering the necessary support. Meanwhile, property owners are advised to carry out regular building maintenance to reduce vulnerability during adverse weather events.
Community leaders, including the Ekiti State Commissioner for Transportation, Kehinde Ajobiewe, and Minority Leader of the House of Assembly, Hon. Oladele Ogunsakin, praised Governor Oyebanji for his swift intervention. They confirmed that apart from residential buildings, the rainstorm also damaged schools, power infrastructure, shops, health centers, and places of worship, leaving many residents homeless and in urgent need of relief.
In his remarks, the Paramount Ruler of Omuo-Ekiti, Oba Noah Omonigbeyin, thanked the state government for its rapid response and expressed gratitude that no casualties occurred. He appealed to well-meaning individuals and philanthropists, particularly those from the affected communities, to support the recovery process by assisting the victims with resources and aid.
