Students of Jesus College returned to classrooms on Monday to find their school severely damaged by a windstorm that struck Friday night. The storm destroyed multiple structures, including classrooms, laboratories, staff quarters, and the exam hall.
The school’s principal, Simon Omala, said students were not on campus when the storm hit but were met with extensive destruction upon their return. “The windstorm blew down almost everything in the school… virtually everything was affected,” he said.
At least 12 classrooms lost their roofs, while laboratory facilities, including the ICT lab, suffered water damage, destroying some electronic equipment.
Despite the damage, terminal examinations are continuing under temporary arrangements. Students are being accommodated in alternative spaces such as the school chapel. “We are managing temporary arrangements for them to finish their exams,” Mr. Omala explained.
The school, established in 1954 and operated by the Benue State Government, has over 400 students. Officials said the storm could disrupt preparations for the upcoming WASSCE in April.
Otukpo’s Area Education Officer, Bernard Oga, described the destruction as extensive and confirmed that the situation had been reported to the state Ministry of Education. “It is really devastating. Almost the whole school is down,” he said, adding that other schools in the area would be inspected.
The storm also caused widespread damage to homes and businesses across Otukpo. The traditional ruler, Och’Idoma Elaigwu Odogbo, called for urgent intervention from federal and state authorities and emergency agencies.
Several families were displaced, prompting appeals for relief materials and infrastructure repairs. Similar destruction was reported in Ejuku, Kogi State, where about 40 houses were destroyed, leaving many residents without shelter.
School authorities said their immediate priority is to ensure students complete their examinations safely while awaiting support to rebuild damaged facilities.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of educational infrastructure in the region to severe weather events, emphasizing the need for emergency preparedness and prompt government response.
