#Features #News

Akoko rainstorm victims cry for help

By Jimoh Ahmed,  Ikare Akoko

|

Victims of the last rainstorm in Okeagbe in Akoko North West Local Government area of Ondo State have been counting their loses and appealed to government for assistance.
Over two hundred houses were affected by the rainstorm while properties worth several millions of naira were destroyed.
The ancient town of Okeagbe Akoko, the headquarters of Akoko Northwest Local Government Area of Ondo State had the first rainfall of the year on Friday but with tears, sadness and frustration as rainstorm ravaged the town, wreaking havoc.
The Hope gathered that the rain which started at about 4:30 pm destroyed many properties while it blew away many rooftops leaving many residents homeless in the process as Ido and Afa quarters of the town were seriously affected.
It was gathered that the rain which was accompanied by heavy wind created tension in the town as residents ran helter skelter for their safety.
When The Hope visited the town, it met many houses which rooftops had been blown away with corrugated iron sheets littering everywhere while electricity poles were badly damaged leaving the town and other neighbouring towns like Afin and Eshe Akoko in total blackout since.
Speaking with the monarch of Aje Quarters, Okeagbe Akoko, Oba Oloruntoba Bello said the rainstorm had added to the hardship of the residents who cannot afford to buy roofing materials because the prices are now exorbitant.
Oba Oloruntoba who said the prevailing economic condition in the country has made it difficult for the victims of the rainstorm to repair the affected houses however called on the government at the three tiers to succor them.
A victim, Mr Samuel Oluwatobi said he lost properties worth several thousands of naira including electronics and personal effects which were damaged by the rain.
Oluwatobi said he remains helpless as he cannot afford the cost of putting back his rooftop which was blown away by the heavy wind.
Another victim, Mrs Jumoke Adeyalo said she has been sleeping from place to place since the rainstorm in the quest to find a place to lay her head.
Jumoke however appealed to both the Ondo and federal governments to come their aid since all hope to rehabilitate the damaged rooftops and buildings have been dashed.
Another resident, Mr Rotifa Adeweki said the rainstorm was very devastating and destructive to the extent that many will be without shelter.
He said the cheapest roofing sheets now cost between N18,000 and N20,000 naira.while roofing planks, nails and charges by carpenters and bricklayers are so high for poor people to afford.
Speaking on the disaster, the Vice Chairman of Akoko North West Local Government, Chief Anthony Adeyanju said the council has compiled the list of the victims and the level of destruction has been ascertained.
Chief Adeyanju who spoke on behalf of the council boss, Elder Ayodele Akande, described the situation as worrisome and devastating.
He symphatised will the victims and assured government would do the needful as soon as records are put in proper place.

Share
Related News  Okra and quick ejaculation cure

Ondo floats Agric Micro Finance Bank

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *