At Least 151 Killed After Heavy Flooding in Nigeria

Heavy flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, has resulted in at least 151 deaths and over 3,000 displacements. Significant damage occurred due to rapid floodwaters, leading to government responses for relief and recovery. Concerns about climate change and inadequate infrastructure remain prominent.

The tragic consequences of recent heavy flooding in Nigeria’s north-central state of Niger have been confirmed, with a reported death toll climbing to at least 151. This shocking update, shared by local emergency services, came on Saturday as rescue efforts continue in the devastated town of Mokwa, which is approximately 380 kilometers (236 miles) west of Abuja. The area serves as a critical trading point for farmers and traders alike, particularly known for its agricultural output.

Early Thursday morning, torrential rainfall triggered rapid flooding in Mokwa, catching residents off guard and wreaking havoc on the community. Ibrahim Audu Husseini, spokesperson for Niger State emergency services, announced that in addition to the fatalities, eleven individuals sustained injuries, and more than 3,000 people have been displaced from their homes. The flooding wreaked havoc on at least 500 households across three affected communities.

The floodwaters surged quickly, rising to waist-deep levels for many residents trapped in their homes, with roofs barely visible above the waterline. Infrastructure damage has also been significant; Husseini reported that two roads were completely washed away while two bridges collapsed under the weight of the torrents. In response to this disaster, President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences on Friday and has ordered an emergency response to help those impacted.

In his statement, President Tinubu reassured the public that support is being organized swiftly. “Relief materials and temporary shelter assistance are being deployed without delay,” he stated. The government aims to ensure that “no Nigerian affected will be left behind or unheard of.” Security agencies are also involved in ongoing emergency operations, searching for any remaining victims in more remote areas.

Flooding is not uncommon in Nigeria during the wet season, but the frequency and severity of such incidents have increased, largely attributed to climate change impacts. Northern communities, like Mokwa, have had to endure not only prolonged dry spells but also the excessive rainfall that often leads to catastrophic flooding.

Mokwa, located near the banks of the River Niger, has never experienced flooding of this magnitude, according to local community leader Aliki Musa. Jibril Muregi, the chairman of the Mokwa local government area, echoed the need for better flood-control measures, noting that the construction of essential infrastructure to mitigate such disasters has been long overdue.

In summary, the catastrophic flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, has resulted in at least 151 fatalities and left thousands displaced. Despite the regular occurrence of flooding during the wet season, this incident has been particularly tragic, highlighting the urgent need for better flood-control measures. Government response is underway, aiming to provide immediate relief and address the needs of the affected communities.

Original Source: indianexpress.com