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Central Nigeria Reels Under Catastrophic Flood Impact

“It has been 60 years since we’ve seen anything like this,” exclaimed Muhammad Shaba Aliyu, Mokwa’s district head, as he recounted the unprecedented flooding that swept through his community, claiming lives and livelihoods. This week’s flash floods in central Nigeria have left a trail of destruction, pushing the death toll to at least 151.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (Nsema) confirmed the sharp increase in fatalities from an initial count of 115 after the River Niger burst its banks, inundating the town of Mokwa. With homes washed away, the community is struggling to grasp the scale of the calamity that struck so swiftly.

Over 500 households have been affected, impacting more than 3,000 residents. In some tragic cases, families have reported the loss of between two and five members, including children, to the raging waters.

“I beg the government to support us,” pleaded Mr. Aliyu, highlighting the desperate need for aid.

Officials warn that the death toll may climb even higher as some victims were swept into the expansive River Niger, which borders the town. Rescue operations have been underway, with 11 individuals already pulled from the floods and rushed to local hospitals for emergency treatment.

The districts of Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa bore the brunt of the disaster, facing the worst of the deluge. The local infrastructure has been heavily hit, including a critical bridge linking northern and southwestern Nigeria, which collapsed under the force of the floodwaters, leaving many motorists stranded.

In response to the crisis, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has directed all relevant emergency and security agencies to “intensify ongoing search and rescue operations.” This directive comes at a crucial time as the rainy season, which typically lasts from April to October, is just beginning.

Authorities are on high alert, having issued warnings of heavy downpours expected in at least 15 of the country’s 36 states. The recent catastrophe underscores the urgent need for preparedness and robust response mechanisms to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.

The community of Mokwa, a significant transit point between the northern and southern parts of Nigeria, now faces the immense challenge of rebuilding. The floods have not only caused immediate distress but are likely to have a lasting impact on the economic and social fabric of the area.

As the region braces for more potential rainfall, the focus remains on recovery efforts and strengthening infrastructure to withstand future floods. The resilience of Mokwa’s residents is being tested as they rally together to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of one of the most severe floods in recent history.