A powerful windstorm hit Ilorin and Ogele/Eyenkorin in Asa Local Government Area, destroying homes, schools, and electric infrastructure. As a result, over 200 structures suffered damage on Sunday.
The windstorm struck during Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, thereby disrupting festivities and causing severe destruction. Consequently, residents said many houses lost their roofs, while more than 20 buildings collapsed, including schools and businesses. Families scrambled for safety as the windstorm tore through their neighborhoods.
Furthermore, heavy rain and strong winds knocked down electricity poles and wires, cutting power in several areas. The windstorm also blocked Kuntu Bridge drainage in Ilorin West as debris piled up and obstructed water flow. Additionally, some roads became impassable, leaving residents stranded and unable to reach safety.
The worst-hit communities included Eyenkorin, Ogele, Ifelodun, Ifesowapo, Orisunbare, Odo-Akuo, Apata Ajele, Alagbado Eyenkorin, Basa, Yakoyo, and Lekki. Specifically, schools like Ogele Primary, Ansarul-Deen Primary, and D-Light A-Nur Nursery lost their roofs completely. As a result, classrooms were left in ruins, making it impossible for students to resume lessons.
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Moreover, at least 15 private schools, including Community Secondary School, Apata Ajele, and Wilson School, Alagbado, suffered severe damage. In addition, Government Day Secondary School lost its roof, while Adeta’s baseball facilities were also destroyed. Market stalls and small businesses in the affected areas faced heavy losses, leaving many traders without a source of income.
Meanwhile, many displaced residents gathered their belongings and moved in with neighbors, hoping for help from authorities and kind individuals. Some families slept in makeshift shelters, while others sought refuge in religious centers and community halls.
In response to the disaster, Zubairu Abiola, vice chairman of Ifelodun community in Eyenkorin, described the situation as overwhelming and urged the state government to act quickly.
“This windstorm has made many people homeless and desperate. Therefore, we urge Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq to support the affected communities, as he has always done,” he said.
Ultimately, residents are now appealing to both government agencies and charitable organizations for urgent relief materials, including food, clothing, and building supplies. The community remains hopeful for swift intervention to help rebuild their homes and restore normalcy.
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