The death toll from the devastating flood in Mokwa, Niger State, has risen to over 100, according to Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, who visited the affected areas on Friday.
Speaking with journalists during his visit, Garba confirmed that more than 100 bodies had been recovered so far, with search and rescue operations still ongoing.
The visit followed the directive of Governor Umaru Bago for an on-the-spot assessment of the disaster’s impact.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the flood, triggered by a torrential downpour on Wednesday night, primarily affected Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa communities in Mokwa Local Government Area. At least 21 people were initially reported dead, with numerous homes destroyed.
“I have received briefings from officials of NEMA and NSEMA, who have been on the ground since the incident. They informed me that over 100 lives have been lost, and the search continues,” Garba said.
While addressing displaced residents at a temporary Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, the deputy governor urged them to remain patient, assuring that the state government is working to provide relief.
He noted that supplies received from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) had already been handed over to the local council chairman for distribution.
Garba also pledged to report his findings to the governor to secure further assistance for the victims.
He cautioned residents against building on water channels and emphasized the importance of respecting natural waterways to prevent future tragedies.
NEMA’s Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, confirmed that agency officials are actively involved in coordinating ongoing rescue efforts.
She said NEMA had provided both food and non-food relief items—such as rice, blankets, and mats—to support affected residents.
The agency is working in collaboration with the Red Cross and the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) to assist the community.
Among the victims is Anas Usman, who lost 17 members of his family in the disaster.
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He recounted that the flood struck early Thursday morning while they were preparing to go to their farm.
“Our house was suddenly flooded and collapsed. We lost children, women, and men—all close family members,” he said.
The tragedy has left the community in mourning, as rescue and recovery operations continue.
