•One of the affected buildings
A rainstorm at the weekend wreaked havoc on the main campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), blowing off roofs and uprooting several trees.
It was learned that the incident exposed some student accommodation areas to the elements and disrupted normal residential activities, reports The Guardian.
UNN’s Public Relations Officer, Inya Agha Egwu, who confirmed the incident, said the storm affected many parts of the campus, with the most severe damage recorded at Awolowo and Isa Kaita hostels, where sections of the roofs were blown off.
He added that several trees were uprooted by the storm, while some large branches fell across roads within the campus, temporarily obstructing movement in some areas.
“Fortunately, no loss of life has been reported, and efforts are ongoing to assess the full extent of the damage,” he said.
Egwu noted that the university management had mobilised relevant units, including the Works Services, Taskforce on Environment, Security Unit, Directorate of Housing and Accommodations, and Student Affairs Department, to clear affected roads and ensure the safety of students, staff and visitors.
“The University has commenced a comprehensive assessment of the affected facilities with a view to undertaking urgent repairs and restoration works.
“Alternative arrangements are also being made to minimise inconvenience to students residing in the affected hostels,” he added.
He said the Vice Chancellor, Prof Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, had expressed sympathy to students and staff affected by the storm and assured the university community of management’s commitment to their welfare, safety and security.
“He has directed all relevant units to expedite remedial measures and ensure that normalcy is restored as quickly as possible.
“The Vice Chancellor appreciates staff and students for staying calm during the emergency situation. He urges everyone to remain calm, exercise caution around the affected areas and cooperate with officials carrying out recovery operations,” Egwu said.
He added that further updates would be provided after additional assessments of the storm’s impact are completed.
