Heavy Rainstorm Damages Homes and Farms in Plateau Community

Over 20 houses and many farmlands were destroyed in Nghassi community, Mandar Ward of Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State. This happened after a heavy rainstorm on Tuesday. The storm has left many residents in need of urgent help.

The storm hit around 5 p.m. on Tuesday. Residents reported that it caused serious damage in the area. It blew off roofs, uprooted trees, brought down buildings, and destroyed property worth millions of naira.

Bulus Ritji, a community member, talked to The PUNCH in Jos on Wednesday about the destruction. He explained that the rain was accompanied by strong winds which made the situation worse.

"The destruction is enormous. More than 20 houses were affected, and many families have been displaced," Ritji said.

He continued, "Although no lives were lost, many victims lost their homes, food items, clothing, and other valuables, leaving them in distress.

"The people are now homeless and urgently need support from the government, humanitarian organizations, and well-meaning individuals.

"Farmlands and other means of livelihood were also destroyed by the storm, worsening the plight of affected residents and forcing many families to seek temporary shelter with neighbors and relatives."

Community Leader Calls for Help

Christopher Luka, the Youth Leader of Bokkos Local Government Area, confirmed the situation to Vanguard. He described the destruction as 'sad'.

Luka has called for immediate action, saying, "I appeal to the Plateau State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (PLASEMA), humanitarian organizations, and other well-meaning Nigerians to urgently provide relief materials, temporary shelter, and other assistance to the victims."

He emphasized that "timely intervention would help cushion the hardship faced by the displaced families."

Mr Sunday Abdu, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency, said he was not aware of the rainstorm in the community.

"The incident has not been reported to our office. But we will find out about it," he said.