By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Tuesday paid a compassionate visit to victims of the recent rainstorm disaster in Osogbo, offering prayers, words of comfort, and immediate support to those affected.
According to a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the visit formed part of the government’s ongoing efforts to respond swiftly to the humanitarian situation caused by the devastating storm, which left several residents injured and properties destroyed across parts of the state capital.
Adeleke visited victims receiving treatment at major health facilities, including Asubiaro General Hospital and Osun State University Teaching Hospital. He also inspected the police barracks located around Oke Fia, one of the areas worst hit by the rainstorm.
Earlier, the Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, had led members of the State Executive Council and emergency management officials on an on-the-spot assessment of affected communities, demonstrating the administration’s prompt response to the disaster.
At the Asubiaro General Hospital, the Governor was warmly received by medical personnel and patients, many of whom expressed appreciation for his personal visit.
Adeleke commiserated with victims of the rainstorm and extended his sympathy to other patients receiving treatment at the facility, assuring them of government support.
The visit took an emotional turn when the Governor expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mrs. Jemilat Tijani, one of the victims affected in the Orita Sabo area of Osogbo. In a remarkable gesture of compassion, he announced a university scholarship for her son, Farouk Tijani.
“This is truly heartbreaking. I hereby offer her son, Farouk Tijani, a university scholarship through Osun State University. Once his admission process is completed, the Secretary to the State Government will ensure the full implementation of this scholarship,” the Governor stated.
At the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Governor Adeleke described the rainstorm as a tragic natural disaster, noting that similar climate-related incidents have been recorded in parts of North America, Europe, and other regions of the world.
He emphasized the urgent need for collective action against climate change, warning that environmental challenges continue to pose serious threats to human lives and livelihoods.
“Climate change is real, and we must act decisively. From the inception of this administration, we have prioritized mitigation strategies to address climate threats. Osun State has received recognition from both local and international bodies for our proactive climate policies,” he said.
The Governor further disclosed that the state’s climate change envoy has already issued technical assessments on the rainstorm, adding that the government would immediately commence public sensitization campaigns across communities to enhance awareness and preparedness for future occurrences.
During his visit to the police barracks at Oke Fia, where the destruction was extensive, security personnel accompanied the Governor on an inspection tour of the affected structures.
He described the scale of damage as significant and assured residents of swift government intervention.
“This is highly unfortunate. Our officials have already taken inventory of the damages, and the scale is quite alarming.
Beyond our internal response, we are engaging the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Economic Council to ensure adequate relief for victims. We are committed to restoring normalcy as quickly as possible,” Adeleke assured.
The Governor was accompanied on the visits by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, alongside other members of the State Executive Council.
The visit underscores the Adeleke administration’s commitment to responsive governance, compassion for citizens, and proactive disaster management, as efforts continue to bring relief and support to victims of the devastating Osogbo rainstorm.
