Report has shown that the city of Ibadan, Oyo state, has experienced its first rainfall of the year 2024 in the early hours of Thursday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the heavy rain, which began at around 3:40 a.m., continued for about 40 minutes before stopping at about 4:20 a.m.
The unexpected downpour, which was devoid of lightning, heavy wind, and thunderstorms, was observed in Omi-Adio, in Ido Local Government, Ibadan South West Local Government, and other parts of the metropolis.
Residents expressed delight over the rainfall, describing it as “showers of blessing in the new year.”
A resident of Omi Adio, Mr. Paul Ademola, said the rain provided relief from the evening heat and mild harmattan in the morning.
“It is also a relief from the harmattan haze made worse by untarred roads, causing illnesses among residents of Omi – Adio. I think it is important for the local government authority to pay urgent attention to constructing the roads,” he said.
Another resident, farmer Mr. Nicholas Olabanji, said the rain was not only a blessing but also an indication of early rainfall in the year.
A roadside trader, Mrs. Romoke Alao, said the rain was a blessing and an indication that the new year would be good for everyone.
NAN reported that some parts of the Ibadan metropolis like Oke -Itunu, Mokola in Ibadan South West did not witness any rain.