By Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
The Presiding Bishop of the Old Catholic Apostolic Church Nigeria, Oluwaseun Raphael Fagbohun, has expressed deep sympathy with the people of Ijero-Ekiti and other parts of Ekiti State affected by the devastating rainstorm that destroyed properties and displaced hundreds of residents.
About 200 buildings were reportedly affected in Ijero Local Government Area alone, while over 500 residents were displaced after the heavy downpour wreaked havoc across sections of the community and neighbouring areas.
The cleric, who also the President of the African Old Catholic Churches and a retired pioneer chaplain of the Nigeria Police Force, Force Headquarters, Abuja, expressed particular concern over the large number of residents forced out of their homes, many of whom are currently taking shelter with neighbours and relatives.
In a statement he personally signed, Bishop Fagbohun described the incident as “heartbreaking and unfortunate,” noting that several families have been rendered homeless and traumatised by the sudden disaster.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the good people of Ijero-Ekiti and other affected communities at this difficult time. The magnitude of destruction is painful, and many families are struggling to cope. We stand in solidarity with you and remain committed to supporting the victims,” he said.
The Bishop, who disclosed that Ijero-Ekiti is his birthplace, said he felt personally touched by the situation and could not remain indifferent.
“Ijero-Ekiti is my birthplace — that is what is in my passport. We have been extending help to others in need, and I cannot abandon my own people at a time like this,” he added.
He assured residents that relief efforts were already being mobilised to cushion the impact of the disaster but stressed the need for proper registration to ensure transparency and effective coordination of assistance.
“Help is on the way. However, I strongly urge all victims to open the designated link and fill out the relief form. This will enable us to properly document those affected and ensure that assistance reaches the right people without delay,” he stated.
He emphasised that the registration process would fast-track intervention and guarantee fair distribution of relief materials.
“No genuinely affected person will be neglected. I encourage victims to provide accurate details through the approved platform so that we can respond swiftly and responsibly,” Bishop Fagbohun added.
The cleric further called on government agencies, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to support ongoing humanitarian efforts across the affected communities.
He prayed for divine comfort for displaced families and speedy restoration of damaged homes and livelihoods.
Link to the Relief Form:
https://tocimsfoodbank.org/receive-help.html�