By Olatunde Odimayo.
The people of Ihima Town in Okehi Local Government of Kogi State were thrown into confusion yesterday March 29 as properties worth millions of naira were destroyed as a result of rainstorm.
The havoc which caused untold hardship to the people of the community saw the destruction of properties belonging to both individuals and public investments.
Speaking on the sad incidence on the floor of Kogi State House of Assembly, the member representing Okehi Constituency, Hon. Sani Kekere Abdulkareem observed that the rainstorm rendered many homeless, while businesses in the area were brought to standstill.
According to him, “the coming of the first rain is often considered as blessing from God as it marks the beginning of another farming season in all communities and often received with joy. Apart from reducing the effect of the harsh weather, it is also essential for human existence. However, the reverse is the case in Okehi Constituency”.
Hon. Abdulkareem urged the state government to as a matter of urgency direct the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, to pay a visit to the affected area with a view to assessing the extent of damage so as to assist the victims.
He also enjoined the House to direct the Administrator of the affected community to visit the area and also provide relief materials as temporary measures to ameliorate the sufferings of the people.
In another development, fire has reportedly burnt down farmlands and crops belonging to the people of Oye, Omo Ejugbahe and Okokotua Clan in Ijumu Constituency of Kogi State.
The inferno affected farmers whose major farm produces are crops as well as palm trees and they are reported to be having serious financial challenges.
