At least 200 houses were destroyed by a severe windstorm that hit Bena town in Bungudu local government area of Zamfara state on Sunday evening.
The storm, which lasted for over one hour, ripped off roofs, pulled down walls, and left hundreds of residents displaced, according to eyewitness accounts.
A resident of Bena town, Malam Musa Bena, who spoke to newsmen, said the disaster struck without warning.
“The incident occurred on Sunday evening and lasted for more than one hour. We lost several houses. Some were completely demolished during the incident. Thankfully, no life was lost,” he said.
Residents said the windstorm damaged both mud and cement structures, with the worst hit areas being compounds built with older materials.
Many families are now seeking shelter with relatives and neighbours.
Emir of Bungudu, Alhaji Hassan Attahiru, commiserated with the people of Bena town over the incident, describing the windstorm as an act of God. He urged victims to remain patient and trust in divine providence.
He said, “This incident was ordained by Almighty Allah. I want to sympathise with the people affected by the windstorm in Bena town under my emirate and pray that Allah provides them with means of livelihood and replaces what they have lost.”
He called on government agencies, philanthropists, and well meaning individuals to come to the aid of the affected families.