Residents of Otukpo in Benue State are grappling with the aftermath of a heavy rainstorm that swept through the historic town, leaving behind widespread destruction, flooded streets and disrupted livelihoods.
The downpour, which many had initially welcomed as the season’s first rainfall and relief from the intense heat, quickly turned disastrous as strong winds and flooding damaged several homes and properties while paralysing business activities across parts of the community.
The development has prompted the paramount ruler of Idoma land, Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, popularly known as the Och’Idoma, to appeal for calm among residents while calling for urgent assistance for victims.
In a statement issued on Sunday, March 15, on behalf of the royal father by the Mayor of Otukpo, Ignatius Ogbogo, the traditional institution urged both the Federal Government and the state authorities to intervene through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
According to the statement, several families have been displaced while businesses built over many years were destroyed by the floodwaters.
“What we had all welcomed as the first rain of the year — a sign of relief from the intense heat and the beginning of a new planting season — has unfortunately brought unexpected hardship to many households within our community,” the statement read.
“Several homes have been damaged, businesses disrupted, and properties built through years of dedication and hard work destroyed by the flooding. Sadly, many of our neighbours have been left without shelter as a result of this disaster.”
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The royal father called for immediate emergency relief for affected residents, including food supplies, blankets and temporary shelter materials for displaced families.
He also appealed for long-term measures such as the expansion and rehabilitation of drainage systems within the town to reduce the risk of future flooding.
Additionally, he proposed the creation of a special intervention fund to support traders and homeowners whose properties were destroyed in the disaster.
While expressing sympathy with the victims, the traditional ruler urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as efforts continue to assess the scale of the damage.
He also advised community members to take precautionary steps to reduce risks during future storms, including clearing drainage channels and avoiding shelter under weak structures or large trees during heavy rainfall.
Residents who have suffered severe damage or displacement were encouraged to report their cases to the Local Government Secretariat so that emergency assistance can be properly coordinated.
Despite the devastation, the monarch expressed confidence in the resilience and unity of the community.
“Otukpo has always been known for its resilience and unity. We have faced challenges before, and by standing together and supporting one another, we will rebuild our community stronger and better,” the statement concluded.