Niger Flood: Death Toll Climbs to 151 as Northern Governors Mourn
A devastating flood in Niger State has resulted in 151 deaths and displaced over 3,000 people, with local officials calling it a national tragedy. In response, President Tinubu has sent a delegation to aid recovery and community preparedness efforts, while the Nasarawa State Government urges residents to relocate from flood-prone areas.
The recent floods affecting Niger State have taken a staggering toll, with the death count now standing at 151, and over 3,000 people displaced. These destructive floods struck on a Wednesday night, particularly hitting the Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa communities in Mokwa Local Government Area. According to the state’s Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, the floods came from heavy rainfall that not only submerged houses but also led to over 100 fatalities just in the storm’s first hit.
Reports indicate that on Friday, 44 of the deceased were laid to rest, following an earlier burial of 31 victims. The Niger State Emergency Management Agency, in a Saturday statement, confirmed the grim numbers: 151 dead, 3,018 displaced, and 503 households affected. They also noted severe infrastructure damage, including the destruction of two bridges and multiple homes across the three most impacted communities.
The Northern Governors’ Forum, led by Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, has expressed their sorrow over the disaster, labeling it a national tragedy that calls for immediate and organized interventions. In a statement issued on behalf of the Forum, Yahaya emphasized that the extent of devastation is heart-wrenching, urging all parties involved to expedite help for the affected areas.
He commended the Niger State Government’s swift actions under Governor Mohammed Bago and needled at the urgency of climate threats, insisting on better strategic planning against future disasters in Northern Nigeria. Yahaya’s statement didn’t hold back on the emotional weight of the situation, noting that “this tragic event highlights the growing threat of climate-induced disasters.”
In the wake of these devastating events, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wasted no time in sending a high-level delegation to offer his condolences. The delegation, led by the Ministers of Information and Humanitarian Affairs, visited Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba to convey the President’s sympathies. During this visit, the Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, shared that Tinubu is deeply affected by the situation and has ordered federal resources to assist in relief efforts immediately.
Idris remarked, “Mr. President is personally saddened by this, and yesterday he directed that every available resource of the Federal Government should be deployed to Mokwa.” The National Emergency Management Agency has commenced assessments and is ready to provide support, working closely with local authorities to ensure that the aid is effective and well-coordinated.
Along with immediate assistance, the President also tasked the National Orientation Agency with ramping up public awareness campaigns, especially in regions prone to flooding, reinforcing the need for disaster preparedness. A reminder that communal vigilance is necessary was echoed, as Idris urged populations in vulnerable regions to heed weather forecasts and prepare accordingly.
Separately, the Nasarawa State Government has taken proactive measures by advising residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground. Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Margaret Elayo, stressed the urgency due to alerts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the history of flooding impacts.
In a recent statement, Elayo stated, “We are partnering with local government chairmen and traditional rulers to guide those affected by this directive.” She called upon the public to stop blocking drainage systems with waste to prevent flooding, promising initiatives to educate communities further about maintenance and cleanliness reports.
In summary, Niger State faces a devastating humanitarian crisis following severe flooding that has claimed 151 lives and displaced thousands. Local and federal governments are responding with condolences and urgent support efforts. Yet, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing threats posed by climate change. Community preparedness and sustainable infrastructure solutions appear more critical than ever to prevent future tragedies. The Nasarawa State Government is already taking steps to mitigate potential losses from similar events in the future, showcasing the need for proactive measures in disaster-prone areas.
Original Source: punchng.com
