Niger Flood: Death Toll Hits 151 as Northern Governors Mourn
Flooding in Niger State, Nigeria, has resulted in 151 deaths and displaced over 3,000 people. The Northern Governors’ Forum calls it a national tragedy, and President Tinubu has sent a delegation to assist victims. Local authorities, including in Nasarawa State, are taking steps to prevent further flooding and protect residents. Emergency management has begun assessments and mobilization efforts.
The recent flooding in Niger State has taken a tragic toll, with casualties rising to 151 and over 3,000 people displaced. The disaster struck the Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa communities in Mokwa on Wednesday night, caused by relentless rainfall. According to the state’s Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, the floods submerged homes and initially claimed more than 100 lives. Reports indicate that at least 44 victims were buried last Friday, with more recoveries expected.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) provided details on the devastation, confirming the death toll and noting that more than 500 households were affected. Two bridges were washed away, significantly impacting connectivity. NSEMA’s Director General, Baba-Arah, stated, “The latest update from the Mokwa communities’ flood shows that 151 corpses have so far been recovered.” The flood has indeed caused widespread destruction across three communities.
The Northern Governors’ Forum, led by Gombe’s Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, expressed deep condolences, calling this catastrophe a national tragedy needing coordinated action. Yahaya described the damage as heartbreaking and emphasized the need for immediate relief and recovery efforts. The Forum applauded the Niger State Government’s swift reaction to the crisis and the work of emergency services providing aid to those affected. Climate change and the increasing frequency of such disasters was raised as a critical issue that demands better flood management.
In light of the flood, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dispatched a delegation to Niger State to show solidarity and support to victims and local officials. The team, which included the Minister of Information and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, visited Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba to convey the President’s condolences. During the visit, it was announced that federal resources would be deployed to assist in relief efforts. “Mr. President is personally saddened by this, and yesterday he directed that every available resource of the Federal Government should be deployed to Mokwa,” stated Minister Mohammed Idris.
The National Emergency Management Agency has conducted an initial assessment and is mobilizing resources for support, including working with local authorities. Steps are being taken to not only address the immediate aftermath but to enhance future disaster preparedness. Public awareness campaigns in flood-prone areas are being prioritized to prepare communities for potential future floods. Minister Yilwatda mentioned that the National Commission for Refugees would continue assistance for the displaced, signaling ongoing federal concern.
In related news, Nasarawa State has taken proactive measures by directing residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground. This directive from the Commissioner for Environment, Margaret Elayo, comes amid rising flood predictions. “We are partnering with local leaders to guide those in vulnerable areas to safety,” Elayo said, stressing the importance of immediate action.
Additionally, the Commissioner urged the public to avoid practices that contribute to flooding, like dumping waste in drainage systems. Continued public education will be vital in both preventing flooding and promoting community health. Elayo pledged to make Nasarawa one of Nigeria’s cleanest states, enhancing the living environment and safeguarding against potential flooding hazards.
The flood situation in Niger State highlights a severe and ongoing humanitarian crisis, with a rising death toll and thousands affected. Emergency agencies and government officials are mobilizing resources and support for both immediate relief and future preparedness. As the situation evolves, other states like Nasarawa are taking measures to mitigate potential flooding risks, emphasizing the need for effective local responses amidst growing climate challenges. Now more than ever, coordinated efforts are critical to support those impacted and to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Original Source: punchng.com
