16 killed, 3,936 displaced as flood wreaks havoc on Jigawa communities

At least 16 persons have lost their lives and 3,936 displaced in a flood disaster in 10 LGAs of Jigawa.

On August 13, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said about 100 families were displaced by flooding in Gantsa, Buji LGA of the state.

Speaking during a press conference, Haruna Mariga, the executive secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), said 2,744 hectares of farmlands were also ravaged by flood.

Mariga explained that most of the deaths were due to the collapse of buildings—mostly mud houses—and boat accidents.

“In total, the number of households affected by the flooding was 3,936, and the persons who were displaced was 3,834; the number of land hectares washed away by the flood was 2,744, and the total deaths as of Wednesday is 16,” Mariga said.

“The canoe overload, the building collapse, and the drowning were responsible for the deaths in the flooding.”

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu in a statement on Wednesday commiserated with the state government, families of the deceased and victims of the flood.

In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, special adviser to the president on media and publicity, Tinubu emphasised on the need for sustainable measures to address the increasing menace of climate change.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extends his profound condolences to the government and the people of Jigawa state over the recent flooding that has led to the loss of lives and displacement of many citizens,” the statement reads.

“The President also commiserates with the bereaved families and victims of the flooding, which has impacted about 14 local government areas and many households.

“President Tinubu states that recurring environmental disasters underscore the urgency of sustaining measures to address climate change and its perils, as well as remove man-made elements to the challenge.

“The President prays for the repose of the souls of the deceased and assures the people of Jigawa of his administration’s support at this difficult time.”

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) had earlier warned of flooding in 19 LGAs in Jigawa.