A powerful windstorm struck Okpuitumo community in Abakaliki Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, early Tuesday morning, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The storm destroyed properties worth hundreds of millions of naira, including the Assemblies of God Church, several homes, shops, and farmlands.
The incident, occurring around 3:00 a.m. at Gmelina Junction, left church members and residents stranded. Worshippers of the Assemblies of God Church are now conducting services outdoors under harsh weather conditions following the collapse of the building.
Rev. Moses Odorimo, pastor of the affected church, described the destruction as devastating and shocking, noting that zinc roofs, walls, and church equipment including musical instruments and the pulpit were destroyed. He appealed to the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, and well-meaning individuals for assistance in rebuilding the church.
Local residents also suffered significant losses. Mrs Nwadurunne Uguru, a widow, reported that her house was badly affected and food supplies were ruined, while Mr Goddy Nwogha lost his yams worth N10 million when a tree fell on his storage barn. Poultry farmer Miss Chioma Nweke lost over 1,000 birds due to the storm, threatening her livelihood. Provision store owner Onyekachi Eze said goods worth N12 million were destroyed in his shop after the roof was blown away.
Despite the massive destruction, no lives were lost, though some children sustained minor injuries. Residents are calling for urgent government and NGO intervention to help them recover and rebuild.
