Torrential Rainstorm Wreaks Havoc in Delta as Residents Cry for Urgent Govt Relief

By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri

Residents of Ugbokodo Community in Okpe Local Government Area, Delta State, are reeling from the aftermath of a devastating rainstorm that tore through their community and neighboring areas of Jeddo and Ughoton on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The disaster left many families homeless, properties destroyed, and livelihoods in jeopardy, prompting urgent appeals for assistance from the government and public-spirited individuals.

Community leaders who spoke on Wednesday, April 16, described the incident as a disaster of immense scale. “What happened here was beyond what any local community can handle,” said Bishop Dr. Paulson Odu, the National Conference Chairman and respected figure in Ugbokodo. “Homes, businesses, and even aquatic life were destroyed. We are pleading with the Delta State Government, the Federal Government, corporate bodies, and kind-hearted Nigerians to come to our aid.”

Stephen Oshegbuwa, Christopher Ofoye, John Ukeredi, and Clifford Dede Ayanbare—leaders and representatives of the affected communities—echoed the bishop’s sentiments, stating that the estimated damage runs into several millions of naira. They expressed fears of further hardship if relief materials are not provided quickly.

For residents like Mr. Innocent Ogbejiele, the situation is dire. “My wife just gave birth on Saturday. Now, we’re sleeping under open skies because our roof was completely blown away,” he said, his voice trembling. “This is the most trying period of my life. The government must not abandon us now.”

Also lending his voice to the call for support was Chief Hon. Udumetotor Eghere, a councillor in Warri South Local Government Area who resides in Ugbokodo. He described the storm’s impact as “devastating and heartbreaking,” urging relevant authorities to act swiftly to prevent further suffering.

Though no lives were lost in the incident, the scale of destruction has left the affected communities in a state of despair, with many hoping for timely intervention to rebuild their lives.