Residents seek govt’s aid as windstorm destroys homes in Ekiti

Residents of Are-Ekiti community in Irepodun-Ifelodun Local Council of Ekiti State have lamented the devastating windstorm that destroyed several homes last weekend.

The late-afternoon rain, which lasted just an hour, left severe property damage and untold sorrow in the community.

The Guardian gathered that the rain was preceded by a windstorm that blew off rooftops and damaged several houses.

A resident of Oke-Afin Quarters, Gabriel Awe, said the windstorm came suddenly but left extensive damage in the community.

Among the buildings affected are the Alare of Are-Ekiti old palace, a portion of the palace fence, and the rooftop of St. Patrick Catholic Church Mission House.

He also told The Guardian that a similar incident occurred last year, but not with a windstorm of this magnitude.

Another resident, Afolabi Matthew, confirmed that several residents suffered personal losses.

The Osolo of the Are community, Omotayo Ayenibiowo, called for the government’s intervention for the community.

Ayenibiowo said: “Many residents were affected by the losses. The crisis on the ground is beyond the community. The forum of the community elders is therefore seeking help from the Ekiti State government to bring succour to the affected residents,” he added.