Rainstorm Destroys Homes And Farmlands In Plateau Community, Leaving Families Homeless

Total Views : 5
Zoom In Zoom Out Read Later Print

A heavy rainstorm has destroyed more than 20 houses and several farmlands in Nghassi community, Plateau State, leaving many families homeless. Community leaders have appealed to the government and emergency agencies to provide urgent relief and support for the affected residents

A heavy rainstorm has destroyed more than 20 houses and several farmlands in Nghassi community, Mandar Ward, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, leaving many families homeless and appealing for emergency assistance.
The storm struck at about 5 p.m. on Tuesday and was accompanied by strong winds that ripped off rooftops, uprooted trees and damaged buildings across the community. Residents said property worth millions of naira was destroyed during the incident.
Although no deaths or injuries were reported, many families lost their homes, food supplies, clothing and other belongings. Community leaders say the disaster has forced many victims to seek temporary shelter with neighbours and relatives.
The latest incident adds to a growing number of weather-related disasters affecting communities in Plateau State in recent years.

HOMES AND PROPERTY DESTROYED
 
Residents said the rainstorm caused widespread destruction across Nghassi community.

More than 20 houses were either destroyed or badly damaged by the strong winds.
Several trees were uprooted, while roofs were blown off buildings, leaving many families without shelter.
Many household items were also damaged during the storm.

FAMILIES LEFT HOMELESS
 
Community member Bulus Ritji said many residents have been displaced because their homes are no longer safe to live in.

He explained that although no lives were lost, the affected families lost valuable possessions, including food, clothing and household items.
Many victims are now staying with neighbours, friends and relatives while waiting for assistance.
Residents say they urgently need food, shelter and other relief materials.

FARMLANDS ALSO AFFECTED
 
The storm also damaged several farmlands, destroying crops that many families depend on for food and income.

Community leaders warned that the loss of farmland could make life even more difficult for affected households.
Many residents rely on farming as their main source of livelihood.
The destruction has therefore created both a housing crisis and an economic challenge for the community.

CALLS FOR EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
 
The Youth Leader of Bokkos Local Government Area, Christopher Luka, described the incident as unfortunate and appealed for immediate government intervention.

He called on the Plateau State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (PLASEMA), humanitarian organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to provide relief materials, temporary shelter and other forms of assistance.
He said quick support would help reduce the suffering of displaced families.

EMERGENCY AGENCY YET TO RECEIVE REPORT
 
The Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency, Sunday Abdu, said the agency had not yet received an official report about the incident.

He assured residents that the agency would investigate the situation and determine the level of damage.
Officials are expected to assess the affected community before deciding on possible relief measures.

WEATHER DISASTERS BECOMING MORE FREQUENT
 
The latest rainstorm comes after similar weather-related disasters affected other communities in Plateau State.

In 2025, a powerful windstorm destroyed more than 70 houses and barns in Mabudi, Sabon Gida and several neighbouring communities in Langtang South Local Government Area.
Residents say stronger weather events are becoming more common and have called for improved disaster preparedness and quicker emergency response.
Community leaders hope the victims in Nghassi will receive the assistance they need to rebuild their homes and livelihoods.