Rainstorm Wrecks Havoc in Shendam LGA, with over 50 Buildings, Schools, Worship Centre Destroyed

A devastating rainstorm swept through the Shimankar District of Shendam Local Government Area, Plateau State, on Sunday, leaving widespread destruction in its path.

Eyewitnesses said the storm, which struck in the early hours of the day, ripped off rooftops and caused several buildings to collapse, including homes, schools, and a place of worship in Menkaat community.

Lawrence Longwalk, a resident of the area, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview with the media, revealing that over 50 houses were affected.

“We’ve been hit seriously by this rainstorm. Two primary schools and a worship centre in Shimankar were completely destroyed,” Longwalk said. “From the level of damage, the people need urgent help.”

The storm has left dozens of residents displaced, with many now appealing to the government and relevant agencies for immediate relief.

The incident further underscores the vulnerability of rural communities in Plateau State to extreme weather conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Due to the region’s high altitude and rocky terrain, sudden storms often result in severe damage.

When contacted, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Sunday Abdu, was unavailable for comments.

However, a senior official of the agency who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that the rainstorm had been reported.

“We are aware of the situation in Shendam and are preparing to assess the damage and determine the necessary response,” the official said.

Residents in the affected community continue to wait for relief materials and intervention from both state and federal emergency management bodies.