A powerful flood has killed at least 30 people and left over 100 others missing after heavy rain hit Mokwa Local Government Area in Niger State on Wednesday night.
The flood, which followed hours of nonstop rain, destroyed more than 200 houses and swept away farms, roads, and entire families. Many people are still searching for their loved ones.
According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the flood is the worst disaster in the state in recent years.
“The flood came suddenly at night. People were sleeping. Some didn’t have time to escape,” said a local resident.
Three people—a woman and her two children—were rescued and are now being treated at a local hospital. Thirty dead bodies have been recovered so far, but rescuers believe many more people are still missing.
NSEMA’s Director General, Alhaji Mohammed Arah, said teams from the agency, local government, and community volunteers are working together to search for more survivors and recover bodies.
The flood mainly affected Tiffin Maza, Anguwan Hausawa, and other nearby villages in Mokwa. Some areas are still under water.
The state government has sent its condolences to the victims’ families. In a statement, Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, the governor’s media adviser, called the disaster “very sad” and asked the Federal Government to help.
“This is a terrible time for the people of Mokwa. We need emergency help—food, shelter, medicine, and support,” he said.
Many people have lost everything. They are now staying in open spaces, waiting for help. Rescue work is still going on. The full number of deaths may rise as the search continues