Nigeria: Deadly floods claim over 110 lives
Torrential rains triggered devastating floods in central Nigeria’s Niger State, killing at least 110 people and destroying over 50 homes in Mokwa town, officials confirmed. The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) reported that surging waters submerged entire neighborhoods, sweeping away residents in the worst-hit Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa districts.
Local authorities described the disaster as unprecedented, with Mokwa’s District Head, Muhammad Shaba Aliyu, stating such flooding hadn’t occurred in 60 years. « I beg the government to support us, » he pleaded.
Nigeria’s government expressed grief and deployed emergency teams for rescue operations, but risks remain as waters persist.
A displaced fisherman, Danjuma Shaba, told AFP news agency, « My house has already collapsed. »
Seasonal floods plague Nigeria annually, but climate extremes are worsening their impact.
Last year, northern regions faced similar destruction, while 2022’s floods displaced 1.3 million and killed over 600. Authorities now warn 15 states could face further heavy rains.
As search efforts continue, survivors await aid amid calls for stronger disaster preparedness
