At least three people have lost their lives, while houses and properties worth millions of naira were destroyed following a heavy rainstorm accompanied by strong winds that struck parts of Nguru Local Government Area in Yobe State.
The incident, which occurred overnight, affected Old Nguru, Filing Idi and several surrounding communities, leaving many residents injured and forcing hundreds of families to flee their homes.
An eyewitness, Bukar Adamu, told our correspondent that the storm destroyed houses, perimeter fences and other valuable property, compelling many affected families to seek shelter with relatives and in government buildings.
He said, “The disaster happened during the night. It claimed at least three lives and destroyed many houses, fences and properties worth millions of naira, forcing those affected to seek refuge in different locations.
“Some are staying with relatives, while others have found temporary shelter in government buildings. We are appealing to the government and well-meaning individuals to support these people and their families.”
One of the victims, Mustapha Modu, described the destruction as severe, saying the storm damaged houses, shops, market stalls and other valuable belongings.
“The wind blew off the roof of my house. I took my wife and children to my brother’s home for shelter until the situation improves.
“My friend also lost his shop, while a young boy, Ilya Alhassan from Filing Idi, died after a room collapsed on him during the storm.
“The disaster has destroyed homes, shops, market stalls and other valuable property. We are facing a difficult situation and pray for relief,” he said.
Confirming the incident, the Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan Foundation (SAIL Foundation) expressed deep sympathy over the loss of lives and the extensive damage caused by the storm.
In a statement, the foundation said about three people were killed, while several others sustained varying degrees of injury.
The statement quoted former Senate President, Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, as extending his condolences to the bereaved families and praying for the souls of the deceased to be granted eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.
Senator Lawan described the destruction of homes, livelihoods and public infrastructure as a major challenge for communities in northern Yobe, noting that similar disasters had recently occurred in Gashua and other areas.
Meanwhile, officials of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) have begun assessing the extent of the damage in the affected communities.
A YOSEMA official told our correspondent that assessment teams are compiling data on damaged houses, property and public infrastructure to enable the government to provide emergency assistance to victims.
