Devastating Flood in Mokwa, Niger State Claims Over 100 Lives

Mokwa, Niger State—A catastrophic flood struck the Mokwa Local Government Area on Wednesday night, following hours of torrential rainfall, leaving the community devastated. The tragedy has claimed over 100 lives, with more than 100 people still missing as rescue operations intensify.

Rising Death Toll and Burials

As of Friday, at least 44 bodies had been buried, adding to the 31 victims interred earlier in the week. Local sources reveal that the death toll may be higher, with numerous corpses yet to be accounted for, including Qur’anic school pupils (Almajirai). Many families are desperately searching for missing loved ones.

Extent of the Disaster

The violent floodwaters swept away homes and structures, displacing entire families and destroying over 50 buildings. Survivors recount harrowing tales of loss, with one victim lamenting the death of 17 family members. Another resident reported his sister and her three children being carried away by the flood, with their bodies still missing.

Government and Emergency Response

Niger State officials, alongside the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), are working tirelessly on search and rescue operations. Relief materials have been distributed, though the scale of the disaster surpasses the state government’s capacity. The state’s Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, has assured victims that efforts are underway to provide aid to the displaced.

Federal Government Intervention

In response to the tragedy, President Bola Tinubu has directed emergency agencies to intensify rescue and relief efforts. The Federal Government, in coordination with security forces and local volunteers, is mobilizing resources to assist the affected communities.

Impact on Infrastructure

Beyond the human toll, the flood has severely impacted vital infrastructure, washing away roads and cutting off key transport links between northern Nigeria and the southwest. Officials warn that urgent intervention is necessary to restore access and prevent further crises.

Hope Amidst Tragedy

As rescue teams continue searching for missing persons, the nation remains united in grief and solidarity with the victims. While relief efforts are underway, the scale of devastation in Mokwa underscores the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness measures to protect vulnerable communities from future calamities.

The devastating flood in Mokwa, Niger State, has sparked widespread reactions from government officials, emergency responders, and affected residents.

Government Response

President Bola Tinubu has dispatched a high-level delegation to Niger State to express condolences and oversee relief efforts. The delegation, led by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, assured victims that federal resources would be mobilized to provide aid. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been actively coordinating rescue operations and distributing relief materials.

Public Sentiment and Local Reactions

Residents of Mokwa are devastated, with many mourning the loss of loved ones and struggling to rebuild their lives. Survivors recount harrowing experiences, including families being swept away by floodwaters. Some have taken shelter in schools and with relatives, while others await further government intervention. The scale of destruction has led to calls for improved flood preparedness and infrastructure development.

Media and Expert Opinions

News outlets and emergency response analysts have highlighted the recurring nature of such disasters in Nigeria, questioning the country’s preparedness for extreme weather events. Experts point to inadequate drainage systems, poor urban planning, and failure to enforce relocation from flood-prone areas as contributing factors. Some reports suggest that a dam collapse worsened the flooding, raising concerns about infrastructure maintenance.

Calls for Action

Many voices, including government officials and humanitarian agencies, stress the need for long-term solutions to prevent future tragedies. The Federal Government has pledged to intensify public sensitization campaigns in flood-prone areas and improve disaster response mechanisms. Meanwhile, affected communities continue to rely on emergency aid as they navigate the aftermath of the disaster.