Following devastating windstorms that caused severe damage across multiple communities in Delta State, Commissioner for Environment Ejiro Jamani has issued a stern warning against indiscriminate tree felling, linking the practice to heightened vulnerability during extreme weather events. The directive comes after assessments of destruction in Okpe Local Government Area, where a recent storm accompanied by hailstones and heavy rainfall destroyed homes, schools, health centers, and businesses in Ugbokodo, Jeddo, and Ughoton communities.
Key Developments:
Human and Material Losses: A thunderstorm in Jeddo claimed one life, while seven homes collapsed in Ugbokodo and Ughoton. Roofs, electric poles, and vehicles were destroyed, leaving residents like Esther and Chief Abada grappling with significant financial losses.
Government Response: Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s team, including lawmakers and emergency officials, visited affected areas to assess damage. Jamani assured residents of the state’s commitment to “safeguarding lives and properties” and announced plans for an environmental investigation to determine the storm’s root causes.
Environmental Stewardship Push: Jamani emphasized that rampant tree removal weakens natural windbreaks, exacerbating storm impacts. He urged residents to adopt tree-planting initiatives to mitigate climate change effects.
Broader Context:
The Okpe storm follows a similar disaster in Abavo Kingdom (Ika South LGA) in March 2025, where a windstorm rendered hundreds homeless, destroyed crops, and caused power outages. Affected communities like Ogbe-Idibon and Ekwueze remain in dire need of government aid, with the Awu Elites Club appealing for urgent intervention to repair homes and restore electricity.
Official Appeal:
While Okpe residents await relief, the Delta government has pledged to implement “mitigation strategies” against future climate-related disasters, underscoring the need for community compliance with environmental guidelines.
