Senator Jiya Ndalikali, representing Niger South, has raised alarm over the devastating impact of the recent flood disaster in Mokwa, Nige...
Senator Jiya Ndalikali, representing Niger South, has raised alarm over the devastating impact of the recent flood disaster in Mokwa, Niger State, describing it as one of the worst natural catastrophes to hit the region.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday after plenary, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senator disclosed that the flood, which swept through Mokwa in May, claimed the lives of entire families — with some losing up to 18 members.
“In some families, 10 people, 18 people, and even much more were swept away. People’s houses, residences, shops, and worship centres were completely destroyed,” the senator lamented.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) attributed the flood to prolonged torrential rainfall and rising river levels. According to the agency’s report, over 206 people were confirmed dead, more than 3,500 displaced, and over 400 homes destroyed.
President Bola Tinubu had ordered the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre following the tragedy and pledged full federal government support to the victims. Relief efforts totaling N3 billion and materials were mobilised within two weeks. However, Senator Ndalikali expressed concern that these interventions have failed to provide meaningful relief to the affected communities.
“I would like to appeal at this point for the government at the national level to implement fully, totally, and completely the pledges they have made to alleviate the sufferings of the people,” he said.
“These people need to be rehabilitated, and we cannot but urge the government to fulfil the promise it has made.”
More Bodies Still Being Recovered
Senator Ndalikali also revealed that more bodies were still being recovered weeks after the flood, painting a dire picture of the catastrophe’s scale.
“We may not be able to say the exact number, but certainly not less than 1,000 lives were at stake or are at stake,” he said.
“About 300 corpses have been recovered, many others are still missing. Just last week, another body was found during excavation.”
He called for a thorough investigation into the disaster, pointing to factors like deforestation, as reported by Akuko News, which may have worsened the situation.
UN Commended, More Support Needed
Senator Ndalikali also praised the United Nations for providing ongoing humanitarian support and revealed that UN officials were working on locating a local warehouse to store additional relief supplies for the flood victims.
“I want to thank the UN agencies on site from the beginning up to now, caring for displaced and injured people and catering to their welfare,” he said.
“Yesterday, I was privileged to discuss with a UN official who said they were looking for a warehouse nearby to store some of the relief items they intend to donate.”
In a heartfelt appeal, the senator urged well-meaning Nigerians, corporate organisations, and philanthropists to come to the aid of the Mokwa community.
“I hereby call on well-meaning individuals and philanthropists to come to the aid of Mokwa people and the victims of these disastrous floods — to enable them to recapture their lives and get going once again.”
As recovery efforts continue, many in Niger State and beyond await a stronger, more sustained federal response to one of the most devastating disasters in recent memory.
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