Tragedy in Sokoto: Windstorm Kills 5, Injures Many, Destroys 1,400 Homes

A devastating windstorm that struck Gwadabawa and Kware Local Government Areas of Sokoto State has resulted in the deaths of five people, injuries to dozens, and the destruction of over 1,400 houses.

This was confirmed during a joint field assessment conducted by officials from the Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). 

The team revealed that the storm, which swept through several communities, left a trail of destruction, damaging homes, schools, and public infrastructure.

In Marabawa community, located within the affected LGAs, the deaths of five individuals were confirmed, including two children aged 1 year 6 months and 3 years 6 months, identified as the children of one Mansur Salihu Talhi.

In Gwadabawa LGA, the assessment team, led by DPM Shehu Muhammad, Councilor for Gidan-Kaya Ward Hon. Siba Sodangi, community leader Adamu Abdullahi Talhi, and Desk Officer Nafi’u Bello, reported that approximately 878 houses were destroyed.

 A total of 1,306 households comprising 7,836 individuals were affected, with 11 people sustaining various degrees of injuries.

In Kware LGA, a separate team led by Desk Officer Aliyu Danbaba confirmed that 523 houses and 1,403 households were affected, with 18 individuals injured. 

The storm also severely damaged public facilities including the fence and classrooms of Government Secondary School, Kware.

Additionally, in the Kofar-Barga area of Kware LGA, the residence of one Ahmad Abbas was completely destroyed. Reports from the 30-Quarters area also indicate that around 100 houses were damaged.

SEMA officials stated that a comprehensive list of the affected persons and properties is being compiled and will be submitted to both state and federal authorities for prompt humanitarian response.