Death Toll in Niger Flood Tragedy Hits 115

The death toll from the devastating flood that swept through three villages in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State on Wednesday night has risen to 115 by Friday, according to emergency officials.

In collaboration with local divers and other agencies, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) continues its relentless efforts to find more victims and survivors. The agency also disclosed that the number of those injured has exceeded 150.

The flood, which left a trail of destruction, affected over 200 homes, many of which were either heavily damaged or completely destroyed. A landmark tree believed to be over a century old in Mokwa town was also uprooted by the raging waters.

Transportation routes have been severely disrupted, especially after the only makeshift bridge in Mokwa was swept away. 

This has cut off a vital road that connects southern Nigeria to the north, leaving hundreds of travellers stranded since the incident occurred.

In response to the calamity, the Niger State Government has reached out to the Federal Government for urgent assistance. 

Jonathan Vatsa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Media Strategy, stated, “This is the worst flooding we’ve witnessed in recent years. 

The scope of the destruction is overwhelming, and the state government simply cannot manage this alone. We urgently need federal intervention.”

Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba visited the affected communities for an on-the-spot assessment. Visibly moved by the devastation, he described the situation as “beyond imagination.” 

He called for calm among residents and assured them that rescue efforts were being intensified.

To ensure proper medical care for the wounded, the Deputy Governor ordered several severely injured be transferred to the Federal Medical Centre in Bida.