Heavy downpour, windstorm ravage Sokoto community

A heavy downpour accompanied by a violent windstorm has devastated Akija community and its environs in Sokoto South Local Government Area, leaving dozens of families displaced and counting their losses.

The incident, which occurred earlier in the week, destroyed several houses, blowing off roofs and causing walls to collapse under the force of the storm.

An on-the-spot assessment carried out on Friday by officials of the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) revealed that more than 25 households were affected, with 14 houses severely damaged.

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Residents, described as largely vulnerable, have appealed for urgent intervention from the state government, federal authorities, and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to help cushion the impact of the disaster.

Some victims who spoke with our correspondent lamented that the destruction has left many families homeless, exposing them to hardship and health risks.

“We are appealing to the state government and relevant authorities to come to our aid. This disaster is too much for us to bear—we need urgent help,” one of the affected residents pleaded.

Community leaders have also urged SEMA and other agencies to swiftly provide relief materials, including food, temporary shelter, and medical support, to the displaced households.