More than 400 escape death as rainstorm destroys 61 houses in Delta

Bizzare rainstorm, which has in the past six days enveloped various communities in Ika South and Ika North East local councils of Delta State, has destroyed no fewer than 61 houses and 200 electricity poles.

While 32 persons, who sustained fatal injuries were admitted in specialist hospitals in the area, reports said over 400 others escaped death by whiskers.

Areas worse hit included Ekwuoma community, Abawo, Azuowa Udome, Ekwueze, Okpo, and Oyoko, where many electricity poles and houses were destroyed.

Occupants of the destroyed buildings had relocated for fear of being electrocuted when the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) restores power to the affected areas, due to the presence of many exposed high-tension wires lying on their buildings and surroundings. They have taken refuge in their relatives and friends’ houses.

A victim, Mr. Patrick Nwanga, who spoke to The Guardian, said there would have been loss of lives if electricity was available while it was raining. He, however, called on the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to come to their aid.

Bosede Nwankwo, who sustained severe injuries and is currently being treated in one of the hospitals in Agbor, said: “I am very lucky to be alive because during the downpour, our tank collapsed on the buildinga few feet from where I was.”