Rainstorm Wreaks Havoc at Kwara NYSC Camp and Ilesha-Baruba Community

A devastating rainstorm struck the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Yikpata, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, on Saturday, destroying properties worth millions of naira.

Although the storm caused extensive damage to infrastructure, officials confirmed that no lives were lost, and all corps members have been safely accommodated.
The storm, which began around 4:30 p.m., was accompanied by violent winds that tore through key facilities, disrupting camp activities.

The Kwara State NYSC Coordinator, Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa, described the incident as a "natural phenomenon" and "very devastating."
“It’s a fact that a terrible rainstorm wreaked havoc at the NYSC permanent orientation camp. Several facilities were destroyed," he said.

According to Onifade, the roof of the administrative block was blown off, the multipurpose hall was partially damaged, and the camp mosque and market also suffered considerable destruction. Some hostel blocks housing corps members and staff were affected as well.
He also revealed that two vehicles belonging to camp officials were completely wrecked when a large tree, uprooted by the fierce winds, fell on them.

Onifade said an immediate assessment was conducted, and relevant government authorities were notified.

The Kwara State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Shehu Ndanusa-Usman, and the Etsu Tsaraji, HRH Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi, have since visited the camp to assess the situation and show solidarity.

Despite the severe material losses, Onifade expressed gratitude that there were no casualties, stating, "We have every reason to thank God — all corps members are safe and have been well accommodated."

Meanwhile, in the Ilesha-Baruba community of Baruten Local Government Area, a rainstorm on Friday night led to the destruction of several properties and the tragic loss of at least one life.

The Emir of Ilesha-Baruba, Professor Halidu Abubakar, speaking to PUNCH Online, highlighted the alarming pattern of this year's heavy storms, which caused rooftops to be blown away, buildings to collapse, and foodstuffs to be destroyed.
"Some victims were greatly affected, and sadly, one life was lost," he said, calling for urgent government intervention.

Victims like Alhaji Ibrahim Mora shared their ordeal, revealing that the roofs and fences of many homes collapsed, leaving many residents homeless and seeking shelter elsewhere.
"Even our family house is affected, and we can only hope for government support to recover," Mora stated.

Another affected resident, Abdullahi Ibrahim, lamented that parts of his home were blown into neighboring properties, causing further destruction.
“We are deeply worried about the heavy storms accompanying the start of the rainy season, but we trust God will see us through," he said.

Pharmacist Alhaji Saidu Adamu also confirmed the death of a relative who was struck by a collapsed wall, adding to the community’s grief.

Residents across the affected areas continue to appeal for urgent government assistance to rebuild and recover from the devastating storms.

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