80 Buildings Destroyed, Residents Homeless as Rainstorm Devastates Enugu Community

Hundreds of residents in Ukete Oduma community, Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, have been left homeless after a violent rainstorm tore through the area, destroying homes and critical infrastructure.

The disaster, which struck suddenly, affected no fewer than 80 buildings, including residential houses, schools, and churches, leaving families stranded and scrambling for shelter.

When our correspondent visited the community, the scale of destruction was evident. Residents were seen trying to salvage belongings soaked by rainwater, while others stood helplessly beside collapsed structures.

The traditional ruler, Igwe Patrick Oshiekwe, described the incident as unprecedented, likening it to a hurricane. He revealed that his palace has now become a temporary refuge for displaced families.

“Everybody in the community is battered. Since I was born, I have never seen anything like this,” he said.

According to him, many houses were completely destroyed within a short period, leaving victims without shelter as rainfall continues to worsen the situation. He appealed to the Enugu State Governor, Peter Ndubisi Mbah, as well as other political leaders and well-meaning Nigerians to urgently intervene.

“Our people have nowhere to sleep. Even public schools and churches were affected. The damage is enormous,” he added.

Also speaking, the President General of the community, Jeremia Njoku, expressed shock over the disaster, noting that its cause remains unclear.

While thanking God that no lives were lost, he stressed that the destruction was severe and required immediate assistance.

“Over 80 buildings were affected. This is the worst we have seen. Our people need urgent help. We are living in fear,” he said.

Victims, including Ernest Nweze and Ifeanyichukwu Akuatuegwu, said they lost properties they had spent years building, calling on authorities and humanitarian organisations for support.

As of the time of filing this report, no government agency had visited the community, further deepening residents’ frustration and sense of abandonment.