Rainstorm Puts Communities In Blackout

Some communities in
Omuma Local Government Area of Rivers State have been subjected to a total blackout following a rainstorm that hit the area recently.
The storm, according to our correspondent who visited the area, destroyed no fewer than 29 electricity poles, several houses, a car and economic trees.
The communities mostly affected were Eberi-Dikomuo, Eberi-Ofe Ohim Oyoro, Eberi-Obiohia and Umuokpo.
When contacted, the Assistant General Manger, Public Affairs, of Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), Mr Obi Onuwah, said he was not yet aware of the development.
Onuwah however, said he had called for situation report on the matter and promised to speak to The Tide on it when properly furnished with needed information.
But the paramount ruler of Omuma, HRH Eze Monday Ojiegbe, confirmed the situation.
The paramount ruler told The Tide that huge damage was being caused by the storm and that the unfortunate situation has unleashed more hardship on the people.
Eze Ojiegbe appealed to governments at all levels, corporate organisations and public-spirited individuals to come to the aid of the victims.
He particularly urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to visit the area and consider ways of assisting the victims.
The building of Redeemed Christian Church of God at Umumkpola was deroofed by the resultant windstorm and the roof fell and smashed a car parked near it.
Unconfirmed report has it that no fewer than two popular rainmakers (names with held) had been arrested in connection with the rainstorm.
A community source told The Tide that the detained rain makers allegedly approached organizers of a burial and crusade ceremonies within the period and demanded for payment to enable them prevent rain that may mar their events on that day.
The wholesome damage caused by the rainstorms was said to have sparked off outcry among aggrieved natives who decided to arrest the suspected rain magicians who were also said to have long been in the habit of duping event organizers in the area.

Chris Oluoh