Flood Looms In Mokwa, A Year After 200 Were Killed

Residents of Mokwa in Niger State are again confronted with the fear of another flood as water level rises which could cause an incident similar to last year’s.

Last year’s flood killed over 200 residents and submerged houses, public buildings and bridges.

LEADERSHIP Friday findings revealed that the situation was caused by the ongoing reconstruction of the railway bridge at the affected scene, which temporarily obstructed the free flow of water.

It was learnt that the accumulated water could cause havoc more devastating than last year’s with any heavy rain in the area.

Confirming this, the local government chairman said that the accumulation of a large volume of water could lead to another flood disaster.

“As a matter of urgency, we immediately contacted the site engineer, Engr. Ayodele of CPN, the construction company handling the reconstruction of the railway bridge, received a directive to urgently reopen the channel to allow the free flow of water. The construction company assured that immediate action would be taken to reopen the passage and prevent further danger.”

He assured the people of Mokwa town that their safety remained the administration’s top priority, adding that the Council would continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard lives and property.

Hon Muregi, however, advised residents living around the affected area to temporarily stay away until the construction company fully reopens the bridge channel to facilitate easy water flow.

“Furthermore, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), in collaboration with the Mokwa Local Government Council Coordinator, Disaster Management and Climate Change, has deployed a team for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation to prevent any possible flood disaster and ensure prompt response where necessary.” He added

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of Niger State Emergency Management Agency, NSEMA, Hussain Ibrahim, said the agency was aware of it “I am at present coming from the assessment tour, and we are coming out with detailed reports on our assessment”.