Rainstorm damages general hospital in Ondo, residents seek intervention

By Boye Oyeyemi

A violent rainstorm has caused widespread destruction in Iju/Itaogbolu community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, damaging parts of a public hospital, residential buildings and shops.

The storm, which was accompanied by strong winds, struck the community on Sunday evening, leaving residents and health workers assessing the extent of the losses.

Witnesses said the heavy rainfall and windstorm tore through several parts of the town, forcing many residents to seek shelter as roofs were ripped off buildings.

The public hospital was among the worst-hit facilities, with sections of its structures damaged and exposed to the weather, causing panic among patients and members of staff.

Findings showed that the hospital’s solar panels and solar-powered lighting system were destroyed during the storm, while rainwater also affected some wards and medical equipment.

Sources at the facility disclosed that diagnostic services requiring electricity had been disrupted because the damaged solar installation serves as the hospital’s primary power source.

Despite the destruction recorded across the community, no casualty was reported as a result of the incident.

A resident, Mrs Taiwo Oluyemi, described the incident as a major setback, saying, “The hospital relies heavily on solar power and the damage will affect healthcare delivery. We appeal to the government and public-spirited individuals to assist the community.” Residents also called for urgent intervention and relief support for affected victims.