The death toll from severe flooding in Nigeria’s north-central Niger State has climbed to at least 200, according to local officials. The disaster struck early Thursday in Mokwa, a key market town located approximately 380 kilometers west of the capital, Abuja. The area, known for its role as a trading and transportation hub, was overwhelmed after predawn rains triggered flash floods that swept through several communities.
Authorities reported that torrential rainfall, which fell heavily for several hours, caused rapid water buildup that submerged large portions of Mokwa and its surrounding areas. The sudden deluge left residents scrambling to escape rising waters that engulfed homes and infrastructure. In some places, only rooftops remained visible as floodwaters reached dangerous heights within approximately five hours.
Musa Kimboku, the deputy chairman of Mokwa Local Government, confirmed that rescue operations have now been halted. He stated that officials no longer expect to find any additional survivors under the debris and floodwaters. In the aftermath, recovery teams have shifted their focus to retrieving bodies buried beneath collapsed structures and debris, with the added concern of preventing potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
The scope of the disaster has also led to significant displacement. According to Ibrahim Audu Husseini, spokesperson for the Niger State emergency services, at least 3,000 residents have been forced to abandon their homes. Emergency shelters have been established to accommodate those who have been displaced, while local authorities coordinate relief efforts to provide food, medical assistance, and temporary housing.
Officials reported that more than 500 households across three separate communities were affected by the floods. The affected residents described scenes of devastation, with many forced to wade through waist-deep water in desperate attempts to salvage belongings and assist neighbors. The rapid onset of the flooding left little time for evacuation, contributing to the high number of casualties.
The Nigerian government has yet to release an official statement regarding the disaster, but local authorities have called for increased support to manage the crisis. Relief agencies and non-governmental organizations are reportedly mobilizing to assist with both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term recovery efforts.
Seasonal flooding is a recurring threat in Nigeria, often exacerbated by poor urban planning, inadequate drainage systems, and changing climate patterns that bring more intense rainfall. Experts warn that without significant infrastructural improvements and comprehensive disaster management strategies, similar tragedies may continue to occur. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.