A rain and windstorm has displaced more than 2,000 residents and damaged no fewer than 179 houses in three communities in the Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.
The afflicted communities are Eroke Atte, Ukwa Erekpe, and Okagba, where the disaster struck on February 1, 2026, at about 5 p.m., according to a preliminary assessment by the National Emergency Management Agency.
On Monday, NEMA Edo issued a statement on its Facebook page.
In a report dated February 6, 2026, NEMA’s Benin Operations Office stated that it conducted a joint assessment of the impacted districts with the Edo State Emergency Management Agency to establish the extent of destruction.
“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 their visit, the assessment team was greeted by the area’s traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Francis Daudu, and 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.
The study found that the storm damaged 179 residential buildings, affecting 337 homes and a total of 2,022 people.
“A total of 179 houses were affected, with 337 households impacted and 2,022 persons affected by the disaster,” according to NEMA.
According to the agency, women and children were the most vulnerable victims, with many being forced to seek sanctuary in neighboring areas.
“Affected persons, mostly women and children, are currently taking shelter with relatives in nearby communities,” the report added.
Aside from residential buildings, the tragedy also damaged critical public infrastructure, affecting living conditions for locals.
“Critical infrastructure, including about 12 electricity poles, was destroyed during the storm,” according to the government.
It further stated that economic trees, which were a significant source of income for many residents, had been destroyed, and that social facilities had not been spared.
“A primary school and a health care center in the affected communities were also damaged by the windstorm,” according to the investigation.
NEMA concluded its preliminary findings by describing the extent of destruction as severe, emphasizing that the impacted communities require immediate humanitarian assistance.
“The level of destruction caused by the disaster is severe, and the affected people are in need of urgent assistance,” according to the organization.
NEMA stated that a more extensive examination would be undertaken and given to management for future action.
“A comprehensive report using the approved template will be forwarded for management consideration,” according to the organization.
