Niger flood: Death toll hits 151 as northern govs mourn

Nigerian flood

The number of casualties recorded in the devastating flood that ravaged the Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa communities in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State has risen to 151, with 3,018 persons displaced.

The flood, resulting from torrential rainfall, hit the communities on Wednesday night, submerging homes and claiming over 100 lives, according to the state Deputy Governor, Mr Yakubu Garba.

Sunday PUNCH reported that no fewer than 44 of the victims were interred on Friday, following the burial of 31 others recovered earlier in the week.

In a statement on Saturday, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency said the casualty figure had hit 151, as the flood affected three communities and washed away two bridges.

“The latest update from the Mokwa communities’ flood shows that 151 corpses have so far been recovered, while 11 persons were injured.

“Also, 3,018 persons have been displaced, while 503 households were affected and 265 homes washed away. Three communities in Mokwa LGA were also affected, while two roads and two bridges were damaged by the flood,” NSEMA Director General, Baba-Arah, said.

National tragedy – NGF

Condoling with the victims, the Northern Governors’ Forum, chaired by Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, expressed deep sorrow over the flood disaster, describing it as a national tragedy that demands urgent and coordinated action.

In a statement issued by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, on behalf of the Northern Governors, Governor Yahaya described the scale of destruction as heartbreaking.

He urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts in bringing immediate relief and long-term recovery to the affected areas.