33 corp members of the 2019 Batch A were hospitalised after a heavy windstorm hit the Taraba State NYSC orientation camp in Sibre, Jalingo, on Saturday, destroying buildings and other valuables. The disaster was reported to have wrecked the powerhouse, shattered the screen of the corps ambulance, blown off several roofing sheets of both the male and female hostel leaving them at the mercy of rain. 

The heavy windstorm which started in the evening caught up with the corps members who were out celebrating a cultural festival in preparation for their passing out parade billed for Tuesday, having completed their three weeks orientation course.

The incident was confirmed by the Taraba State NYSC Coordinator, Florence Yaakugh, who disclosed that no life was lost. 

“While scampering for safety because of the fierceness of the storm, some corps members who had some health challenges like asthma, chest congestion, and the likes were choked and hospitalised,” she added.

“About 33 of them were moved to the clinic of the camp, of which nine were referred to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo because of their condition.”

Florence, however, disclosed that the 24 corps members admitted in the camp’s clinic had been discharged and five of those taken to FMC Jalingo had been discharged.

The coordinator said the state government had sent some officials to take inventory of the damages caused and promised to commence repair works soon.