By Sabiu Abdullahi
A powerful rainstorm has wreaked havoc in Tom Gangare community, located in Sopp Ward of Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, destroying about 100 houses and forcing many families out of their homes.
The disaster struck on Sunday after a heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds swept through the area. The storm also damaged healthcare facilities, worship centres and other public infrastructure.
Residents said the incident caused extensive damage to property valued at millions of naira. Many families lost their homes as the windstorm tore through the community.
One of the residents, Mr. Bot Felix, said several trees were uprooted by the strong winds. He explained that many of the fallen trees landed on houses, increasing the level of destruction recorded in the area.
A community leader, Dung Danboyi, described the incident as unfortunate and appealed for immediate assistance from government agencies and humanitarian groups.
While expressing gratitude that no lives were lost, Danboyi said many residents have been left without shelter and now face serious hardship.
“The level of destruction is overwhelming. Many families have lost their homes and means of livelihood. We are appealing to government agencies, humanitarian organisations and well-meaning individuals to come to the aid of our people during this difficult time,” he said.
He urged the Plateau State Government, the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, development partners and other stakeholders to provide relief materials and other forms of support to affected residents.
The councillor representing Sopp Ward, Gwong Ibrahim, also appealed for urgent intervention from relevant authorities. He noted that many victims were finding it difficult to secure temporary accommodation and basic necessities.
Meanwhile, Chairman of Riyom Local Government Council, Sati Bature Shuwa, visited the affected community to evaluate the extent of the damage and sympathise with residents.
Shuwa assured victims that efforts would be made to attract support and assistance for those affected. He also disclosed that authorities would conduct a detailed assessment of the losses to guide appropriate intervention by government and emergency management agencies.