Heavy rainfall, accompanied by strong winds, has wreaked havoc in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.

The wind destroyed houses, schools, and church buildings in several communities in the Akure North area of the state.

Communities impacted by the disaster were Eleyewo, Ilu-Abo, and Bolorunduro, among others. While counting their losses after the Monday night rainstorm, which led to the destruction of properties worth millions of naira, some persons were seen trying to salvage what was left of their belongings that had been soaked in water.

With residents of the communities, particularly the affected victims, counting their losses occasioned by the rainstorm, The Guardian, during a visit to the areas, observed that people were in a state of disbelief over the incident.

According to some of the residents, the downpour, which started at about 6:30 p.m., also damaged vehicles, shops, and other valuables for hours in the community.

One of the victims, who gave his name as Lukman Haruna, however, stated that no lives were lost and that the rain, which started at a normal rate, grew worse with accompanying winds, eventually turning into a heavy storm that began blowing off rooftops and destroying anything in its path.

He said, “The downpour damaged several houses, shops, church buildings, electric poles, schools, among others.

“The roof of a community school, known as LA Primary School in Ilu-Abo, was also badly damaged by the rainstorm.

“The Redeemed Christian Church of God in Ilu-Abo was mostly hit, as the rainstorm destroyed the iron roofing sheets and ceiling, while the fence of another church, Possibility Church, also caved in.

“The rain also destroyed my shop and goods. It was just too heavy, as we could not salvage anything while the downpour lasted.

“Over 20 houses and churches were destroyed by the rain. So, we are begging Mr. Governor (Lucky Aiyedatiwa) and other philanthropists to assist us.”