Residents of Ukete Oduma in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State are still in shock after a violent windstorm destroyed over 80 buildings in the community, leaving hundreds of people homeless.
The disaster which residents described as sudden and terrifying, also destroyed public schools, churches, electricity poles, economic trees and livestock earlier in the week. Property worth millions of naira was lost in the incident.
When our correspondent visited the area yesterday, many residents were seen still trying to salvage some of their belongings. Soaked mattresses, clothes and household items were spread outside under the sun, as families struggled to dry what was left of their property.
The traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Patrick Oshiekwe, described the incident as the worst he has ever seen, likening it to a hurricane.
“Everybody in the community is battered. Since I was born I never saw such a thing. Within a short time, all the houses in our community were destroyed. Many people have nowhere to lay their heads.
“I am crying for help from our amiable governor, Dr Peter Ndubisi Mbah, to come to our aid. Senator Osita Ngwu and Chief Anayo Onwuegbu to please come to our community. Most of our public schools were affected, even churches.
“The damage is so huge. Some of the owners of these buildings are staying abroad, so it will even take such individuals time to return, and it’s raining almost on a daily basis.”
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The monarch said his palace has now been turned into a temporary shelter for displaced families, as many residents have nowhere to sleep.
Also speaking, the President General of the community, Jeremia Njoku, said the people are still confused about what caused the incident.
“You can see by yourself that over 80 buildings were affected. We are not talking about the ones that have minor damages. I think this was the worst in the history of the country. Our people need urgent help. We are living in fear.”
Some of the victims, including Ernest Nweze and Chief Ifeanyichukwu Akuatuegwu, said they lost everything they had laboured for over the years and appealed for assistance.
Although no life was lost, residents said the level of destruction is massive and beyond what the community can handle on its own.
As at the time of filing this report, no government agency had visited the community, leaving the affected residents to cope on their own while calling for urgent help.
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