At Least 151 Killed After Heavy Flooding in Nigeria

Severe flooding in Mokwa, Nigeria, has resulted in at least 151 fatalities and significant displacement, with local authorities confirming several injuries and substantial property damage. President Bola Tinubu is implementing emergency measures to assist victims and facilitate recovery efforts amidst ongoing concerns about climate-related disasters.

At least 151 individuals have lost their lives due to catastrophic flooding in Mokwa, a market town located in Nigeria’s north-central Niger state. The local emergency service confirmed the rising death toll on Saturday as efforts to find more victims continued, following intense rainfall that began early Thursday. The flooding, striking nearly 380 kilometers west of Abuja, disrupted the area’s role as a vital trading hub for farmers selling crops to southern traders.

The spokesperson for the Niger State emergency service, Ibrahim Audu Husseini, reported that in addition to the fatalities, 11 people sustained injuries and over 3,000 individuals were displaced. As the situation unfolded, the flooding engulfed at least 500 households across three communities, submerging roofs and leaving residents waist-deep in water. Many were seen attempting to salvage belongings and assist in rescue efforts.

With the flooding causing the destruction of two roads and collapsing two bridges, President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences in a statement released on Friday night. He directed emergency resources to support those affected and emphasized the importance of accelerating recovery efforts. Security agencies have been tasked with aiding in ongoing emergency operations, as concerns grow that more bodies might be discovered in remote areas.

President Tinubu assured citizens that relief supplies and temporary shelter would be provided swiftly, stating, “No Nigerian affected will be left behind or unheard of.” Flooding is a normal occurrence in Nigeria during its wet season; however, this year’s events are highlighted by the troubling combination of prolonged droughts and intensified rainfall linked to climate change.

Community leaders like Aliki Musa have remarked that the current flooding in Mokwa, a farming area near the River Niger, is unprecedented for the villagers. Jibril Muregi, the chairman of Mokwa’s local government area, noted that the absence of necessary flood-control infrastructure has been a long-standing issue that requires urgent attention. More complaints are surfacing about the lack of preparedness for such natural disasters, reflecting a need for improved disaster management in the region.

The devastating flooding in Mokwa, Nigeria has claimed at least 151 lives, led to numerous injuries, and displaced thousands. This incident highlights the challenges posed by climate change and inadequate flood preparedness in the region. President Bola Tinubu’s prompt response aims to provide much-needed relief and support to affected individuals as the community seeks to navigate the aftermath of this disaster. The need for improved flood-control measures has never been clearer.

Original Source: indianexpress.com