The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, on Monday, confirmed that over 1,800 persons were displaced following a devastating windstorm that ravaged several communities in Garba Chede, Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State.
According to a statement provided by NEMA, the storm followed a strong downpour accompanied by violent winds on June 2, 2025, and affected communities including Anguwan Amare, Anguwan Hamidu, Anguwan Baki, and Sabon Layi in Kaigama Ward.
Head of NEMA’s Yola Operations Office, Mr Ladan Ayuba, said preliminary inspections suggested that more than 300 structures, including residences, a church, a school, and a hospital, were either destroyed or substantially damaged.
“Our team has conducted a rapid assessment, and we are working with the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency to conclude a full report that will guide immediate humanitarian intervention,” Ayuba said.
Meanwhile, the North East Development Commission has agreed to repair all 300 damaged houses.
The commission made this announcement after a delegation visited the community for an on-the-spot evaluation.
Hajia Batulu Isa, Deputy Director of Assistance and Mediation, led the NEDC team and assured victims that assistance materials will be given soon.
“We have seen the extent of destruction. The commission will provide food items, non-food items, and building materials to cushion the impact on the victims,” she said.
Isa stated that the assessment report would be forwarded to the commission’s Managing Director and CEO, Alhaji Mohammed Alkali, for immediate action.
Mr Hashimu Abdulkadir, the village chief, told journalists that six persons perished in the tragedy, while over 30 others were injured and seeking treatment at various hospitals.
He reported that the storm destroyed buildings of worship, a school, and a health centre.
He urged the Taraba State Government and local representatives in both the state and national assemblies to assist the afflicted communities.
Mrs Zubaida Umar, who narrowly escaped with her six children, stated that the storm had rendered many residents homeless and in need of immediate assistance.
“Life has been very difficult since the incident. We need food, shelter, and basic items to survive,” she said.
