NEMA: Seven killed, many displaced in Niger flood

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) says seven persons died in the recent flood that occurred in Magama and Rafi LGAs of the state.

Ibrahim Inga, director-general of NSEMA, announced the development in a statement on Friday.

Inga said many houses, farms, bridges and roads that connect several areas were destroyed in the flood, while many persons have been displaced.

According to him, six persons were reported dead in Magama area, while one resident died in Rafi LGA of the state.

He said Niger is among the five states listed by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) expected to experience heavy downpour in the country.

“The state has started experiencing the negative impact of the flooding, with houses, farmlands, bridges and some linked roads washed away in some LGAs located at upstream and downstream of the 4 Dams,” the statement reads.

“These rendered many homeless and have affected the socio-economic activities of the communities.

“The LGAs include Lavun, Magama, Rafi, Kontagora, Gbako, Mashegu and Wushishi.

“The state has also recorded 7 deaths; 6 in Magama and 1 in Rafi.

“Meanwhile, the general assessment of the rainfall impact is still ongoing and periodic update will be made public as it unfolds.”

He advised residents to ensure all drainages are clear, and also asked them to ensure stagnant water is flushed away “to avoid breeding mosquitoes”.

“Ensure you put off all electrical appliances when not in use and when leaving home, don’t store petrol or any inflammable item at home or shops to avoid fire outbreak,” he added.

“Stop indiscriminate felling of trees and plant more trees to serve and preserve our environment against desertification and flooding.”

He encouraged residents living near riverine areas to relocate to safer regions, adding that activities around river banks should be stopped.