Over 2,000 displaced as windstorm ravages Edo communities – NEMA

A violent wind and rainstorm has left more than 2,000 people displaced and destroyed scores of homes across three communities in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has said.

The storm, which struck around 5pm on 1 February 2026, affected Eroke Atte, Ukwa Erekpe and Okagba communities, according to findings from a preliminary assessment released by the agency.

NEMA disclosed this in a statement shared on its Edo State Facebook page on Monday, noting that the scale of destruction prompted a joint field assessment.

In a report dated 6 February 2026, NEMA’s Benin Operations Office said it partnered with the Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EdoSEMA) to evaluate the damage caused by the disaster.

“The National Emergency Management Agency, Benin Operations Office, in collaboration with the Edo State Emergency Management Agency, conducted a joint assessment to ascertain the extent of damage in communities affected by the wind and rainstorm in Akoko Edo Local Government Area,” the agency stated.

During the assessment visit, the team was received by the traditional ruler of the area, His Royal Highness Francis Daudu, alongside members of his executive council.

“The royal father welcomed the team and expressed appreciation for the timely intervention and visit to the affected communities,” the report noted.

Findings from the assessment revealed widespread destruction of residential properties, with hundreds of families affected.

“A total of 179 houses were affected, with 337 households impacted and 2,022 persons affected by the disaster,” NEMA said.

The agency added that women and children were the most vulnerable victims, many of whom have been forced to seek temporary shelter outside their communities.

“Affected persons, mostly women and children, are currently taking shelter with relatives in nearby communities,” the report added.

Beyond homes, the storm also damaged critical infrastructure, compounding the hardship faced by residents.

“Critical infrastructure, including about 12 electricity poles, were destroyed during the storm,” the agency stated.

NEMA further reported that economic trees, a key source of livelihood for residents, were uprooted, while public facilities were not spared.

“A primary school and a health care centre in the affected communities were also damaged by the windstorm,” the report said.

Concluding its preliminary assessment, the agency described the impact of the disaster as severe and stressed the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

“The level of destruction caused by the disaster is severe, and the affected people are in need of urgent assistance,” NEMA stated.

The agency added that a more detailed report would be submitted to its management for further action.

“A comprehensive report using the approved template will be forwarded for management consideration,” it said