In Mokwa, a market town in Nigeria’s north-central state of Niger, devastating flooding has resulted in a death toll of at least 200, as confirmed by local official Musa Kimboku. The flooding was triggered by heavy rainfall on Thursday, impacting the region, approximately 236 miles from Abuja, known for its agricultural trade. Rescue operations have been suspended, with authorities stating they no longer expect to find survivors. To combat potential disease outbreaks, officials are beginning to exhume bodies buried under debris.
According to Niger State emergency service spokesperson Ibrahim Audu Husseini, the disaster has also left over 3,000 people displaced and injured at least 11. The flood affected around 500 households in three communities, rising rapidly and leaving many areas submerged, with survivors struggling to salvage belongings. Two roads were washed away, and two bridges collapsed as a result of the deluge.
In response to the tragedy, President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences and directed emergency support for victims, emphasizing the need to accelerate recovery efforts. Although flooding during Nigeria’s wet season is common, this incident has been particularly catastrophic for Mokwa, a farming region along the River Niger. Community leaders noted that such severe flooding is unusual for the area, highlighting the impacts of climate change that have exacerbated extreme weather patterns. Mokwa local government chairman Jibril Muregi stressed the urgent need for flood-control infrastructure to prevent future incidents.
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