The devastating flash floods that swept through Mokwa Local Government Area in Niger State, claiming at least 153 lives and displacing thousands, have drawn the attention and sympathy of Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election.
On Monday, Obi traveled to Niger State alongside former minister Nenadi Usman and spokesperson Yunusa Tanko to express solidarity with the affected communities and government officials. Sharing the visit on X (formerly Twitter), Obi wrote:
“Today, along with @SenNenadiUsman and Dr @YunusaTanko, I travelled to Niger State to condole and show solidarity with the Governor and the good people of the state over the devastating floods in the Mokwa area.”
Prior to his visit, Obi had reached out to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago from the United Kingdom to offer his condolences. Upon arrival, he was welcomed by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba.
During discussions with state officials, Obi highlighted the urgent needs confronting the communities affected by the floods.
“We had a discussion about the urgent needs of the affected communities, where over 200 lives have been lost, about 1,000 persons are still missing, more than 3,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and several homes destroyed,” he said.
The 63-year-old former Anambra State governor also announced a ₦20 million donation as part of his efforts to assist with relief and recovery.
“As part of my commitment to stand with the people of Niger State during this difficult time, I made an initial donation of ₦20 million to support the effort of the government, and I will continue to support their effort,” Obi affirmed.
Calling for a unified national response, Obi urged the Federal Government, emergency agencies, and all Nigerians to come together to aid those affected by the calamity.
“As I mentioned during the visit, this incident and others happening all over Nigeria affect us all. As a family, we must come together to care, comfort, and stand together, especially in times of grief and difficulty.”
“May Niger State find peace and restoration. I pray that God comforts the families of those who have lost their loved ones, protects those still missing, and grants healing and strength to everyone affected by this disaster”
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed that the flood disaster in Mokwa LGA has resulted in at least 153 deaths and displaced more than 3,000 people.
Acting director general Ibrahim Hussaini revealed the death toll rose after recovering more bodies from under a collapsed bridge.
The flooding, caused by persistent rains from Wednesday night to Thursday morning, also injured 11 people and destroyed three bridges.
Other communities, such as Ndayako and Raba, suffered significant property damage but no fatalities.
Search and rescue efforts face difficulties due to submerged roads, with officials indicating heavy equipment might be necessary to reach victims feared trapped under debris.
Hussaini expressed concern over how access challenges were slowing emergency operations.
Among the devastated is Mohammed Tanko, a civil servant who mourned the destruction of his childhood home and the loss of at least 15 relatives.
The Red Cross, actively involved in recovery, vowed to persist in searching for survivors and the deceased, emphasizing the urgent need to heed the cries of grieving families.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had previously issued warnings about flash floods in 15 states, including Niger. Floods have claimed 321 lives across 34 states in Nigeria in 2024 alone.
