A powerful rainstorm has wreaked havoc in Erinmo-Ijesa, Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State, destroying properties worth millions of naira.
The heavy downpour, which lasted for about an hour, severely impacted several buildings, including the residence of the town’s traditional ruler, the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa, Oba Dr. Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II. The storm also damaged the fence of his under-construction ultramodern palace guest house.
The destruction extended beyond the palace, with over 20 buildings affected, including shops, business premises, and the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Erinmo District Headquarters.
Reacting to the disaster, Oba Arowotawaya II expressed deep concern over the extent of the damage and called on Governor Ademola Adeleke, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to provide urgent assistance to those affected.
“I appeal to the government and relevant agencies to come to the aid of my people who have lost their homes and businesses to this disaster,” the monarch said.
He also urged residents to remain calm and assured them that efforts were being made to seek government intervention.
Speaking on behalf of the affected residents, Evangelist Segun Otubanjo said many people had been rendered homeless by the storm and pleaded with the Osun State government to provide relief materials and support.
“The damage is overwhelming, and many people have nowhere to stay. We urge the state government to assist those affected as soon as possible,” he said.
The storm has left the community in distress, with residents hoping for swift intervention to rebuild their homes and businesses.
