C'River: Windstorm Ravages Oyenghe Secondary School, Halts Academic Activities
By Ekanem Asuquo
Academic activities at Oyenghe Comprehensive Secondary School in Nta Nselle, Ikom Local Government Area, have been completely disrupted after a powerful windstorm struck the school over the weekend, leaving widespread destruction across the campus.
Inspection of the school revealed that all classroom blocks, which used to accommodate students, were destroyed, with roofs torn off. Key facilities, including the library, science laboratory, staff room, and examination hall, were severely damaged.
Speaking to our reporter, Principal of the school, Mr. Henry Obri described the situation as alarming and appealed for immediate government intervention.
“The damage is extensive, and students cannot continue their academic activities under these conditions. We urgently need support to restore the infrastructure and provide a safe environment for learning,” he said.
Obri lamented that even the large trees that could have offered temporary shelter were uprooted by the windstorm, leaving students and staff without any safe space to continue academic activities on the school premises.
Community leader Kate Anoka also weighed in, describing the destruction as “massive and unprecedented.” She expressed deep concern about the disruption to education, noting that teachers and students currently lack a conducive environment to continue the second-term academic calendar.
Eyewitnesses reported that the storm followed a heavy downpour on February 13, and its intensity caught both the school and the surrounding community off guard. Residents are now appealing to government authorities and humanitarian organizations to provide urgent assistance to repair the school and allow students to resume learning as soon as possible.
Parents and guardians have also voiced concern over possible extended closure, warning that prolonged disruption could negatively affect students’ academic performance. Temporary arrangements for learning have yet to be confirmed, leaving pupils idle while recovery efforts are planned.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of public and private infrastructure to natural disasters in the region, a situation worsened by massive deforestation and its disastrous effects on climate change. It raises urgent questions about preparedness, maintenance, and support for educational institutions in Cross River State.
Authorities have been urged to act swiftly to ensure that education is not derailed and that students can return to a safe and functional learning environment.
