Heavy Rainstorm Wrecks Havoc in Are-Ekiti, Leaves Many Residents Homeless

A heavy downpour that lasted several hours on Sunday evening has caused widespread destruction in Are-Ekiti, leaving many residents homeless and properties severely damaged.

The rainstorm, which residents described as unusually intense and prolonged, reportedly began late in the evening and continued well into the night. The downpour was accompanied by strong winds that ripped off rooftops and weakened several buildings across the community.

Eyewitnesses said a number of houses could not withstand the force of the storm, resulting in partial and, in some cases, complete collapse of structures. Household belongings were also destroyed or washed away as floodwaters quickly inundated many parts of the town.

Following the incident, several families have been displaced and are now taking refuge with relatives and neighbours, while others remain stranded without immediate access to shelter and other basic necessities.

Residents expressed deep concern over the situation, noting that the sudden displacement has exposed many victims—particularly children and the elderly—to harsh weather conditions and potential health risks.

Victims of the disaster have appealed to the Ekiti State Government, under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, to urgently intervene and provide assistance to affected households.

They specifically called on the Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency to swiftly assess the extent of the damage and mobilise relief efforts, including the provision of temporary shelter, food supplies, and medical support for victims.

Community leaders also urged the government to take prompt action to support those affected and restore normalcy in the area, stressing that immediate intervention is necessary to rehabilitate victims and repair damaged infrastructure.

As residents continue to count their losses, there are growing expectations that the relevant authorities will respond quickly to the distress call and provide both immediate relief and long-term measures to safeguard lives and property against future disasters.