A heavy downpour lasting for days has wreaked havoc in Igarra community, headquarters of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.

The downpour, which reportedly resulted in a heavy flooding, was said to have submerged no fewer than 20 houses in the town and several other homes in surrounding villages. A lone bike rider identified as Uche was also swept away by the flood water while coming to Igarra from Somorika. His body was recovered two days later.

The devastating flood, which affected both residential, commercial and religious buildings in the town and neighbouring communities, was said to have uprooted graves of bodies buried in homes, while some houses were completely submerged for several days.

Findings show Iretutu axis, Pope Francis Road, Okpe Road, Market Road, Rest House Road, among others were worse hit by the devastating flood.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of the local government council, Alabi Oshionogue, said the necessary bodies like the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) have been informed.

He added, “We have taken records and communicated SEMA and also doing a follow up on it. We sympathise with the affected families while making plans to ameliorate the situation before us as a govt.

“We are working in collaboration with the SEMA to ensure those affected by the flood are reached in this trying period.

“I have directed the HOLGA, the HOD environment/works to carry out immediate assistance in clearing the drainages by removing the refuse and wastes the flood has deposited across areas affected.”

The councilor representing Ward 1 in the area, Asebe Rabi said the flood was devastating, adding that many people have lost their properties and means of livelihood. He  called the authorities for support.