Residents seek help as rainstorm destroys property in Ondo communities

Residents of Eleyewo, Ilu Abo, Bolorunduro, and nearby areas in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State have appealed to the state government and intervention agencies for assistance after a rainstorm destroyed their properties.

The rainstorm, which struck during a heavy downpour on Monday evening, caused damage worth millions of naira, affecting vehicles, shops, and churches. However, no lives were lost in the incident.

The rain, which began around 6:30 pm, started normally but soon turned into a violent storm with strong winds, blowing off rooftops and damaging several properties.

An eyewitness said, “The roof of an LA Primary School in Ilu Abo was also badly damaged by the rainstorm. The Redeemed Christian Church in Ilu Abo was hit the hardest, as the storm destroyed its iron roofing sheets and ceiling, while the fence of another church, Possibility Church, also caved in.”

One of the victims, Mr Lukmon Haruna, said the storm destroyed his shop and goods, calling on the government for help.

“It was just too heavy, and we could not salvage anything while the downpour lasted. Over 20 houses and churches were destroyed by the rain. So, we are begging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and other philanthropists to assist us,” Haruna pleaded.

Another victim, Mrs Funmilayo Fadimu, also appealed to the government for assistance, saying the storm had damaged both her house and shop.

“I am appealing to the state and federal governments to assist my family. Many items in my shop and house have been destroyed. It’s hard for me to repair the shop and replace the damaged items,” Fadimu said.

Reacting, the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, sympathised with the victims.

Adeniyan said, “We sympathise with the victims. Officials of the State Emergency Management Agency will assess the damage and make recommendations on government assistance for the victims.”