Windstorm in Yobe Claims Two Lives, Leaves Many Homeless

On Wednesday evening, a severe windstorm accompanied by heavy rainfall struck Yobe State, specifically affecting the Gashu area within the Bade Local Government Area. The tempest lasted approximately 15 minutes, resulting in the loss of two lives and extensive property damage, with losses estimated in millions of naira.

Ibrahim Babagana, the chairman of the Bade Local Government, described the disaster as devastating, noting that roofs were blown off residential buildings and numerous shops were destroyed, impacting families and business owners. Malam Yahaya Mato reported that the rainfall was not particularly heavy, but the windstorm's intensity caused significant destruction, including the complete collapse of telecommunication masts.

He attributed the increased severity of windstorms to widespread deforestation, which has removed natural windbreaks. Dr.

Akinola Adekunle, the medical director of a specialist hospital in Gashu, confirmed the fatalities. The local government is urgently seeking state intervention to provide relief materials and temporary shelter for the affected residents.