Floods ravage Nigerian town, claiming over 200 lives. Photo courtesy: AP News
(The Post News)- Officials report that the flood in Mokwa, Nigeria, has claimed over 200 lives, with 500 people still unaccounted for as search efforts persist. Musa Kimboku, deputy chairman of Mokwa Local Government, stated that rescue operations have been halted due to the low likelihood of finding survivors.
The torrential rains caused devastating floods, described as the worst in 60 years, affecting towns like Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa. To mitigate health risks, authorities plan to exhume bodies buried in mass graves, according to Mokwa’s district head, Muhammadu Aliyu.
Residents shared traumatic accounts of the flood, describing how it destroyed their homes and claimed loved ones. Adamu Yusuf recounted losing his wife and newborn, saying he survived by swimming to safety. Saliu Sulaiman reported losing his home and $1,500 in cash due to the floods, which he had earned from selling farm produce. He narrowly escaped the waters, abandoning his money.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has initiated relief efforts for flood victims, including distributing aid packages. However, infrastructure damage has disrupted the economy and traffic flow. The Nigerian Red Cross described the floods as causing “significant loss of life and widespread distress” in a statement.
Flooding is a recurring issue during Nigeria’s rainy season (April-October). Recent years, including 2022 and 2024, have seen severe flooding, resulting in loss of life and displacement.
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