A severe flood has caused widespread devastation in Jigawa State, resulting in the deaths of 16 individuals and displacing 3,834 residents across ten local government areas (LGAs).
The flood, triggered by days of continuous rainfall, has inundated entire communities, leaving many people homeless and damaging extensive areas of farmland.
During a press briefing on Wednesday in Dutse, the state capital, Haruna Mairiga, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), provided these distressing figures.
He reported that approximately 3,936 homes were destroyed and 2,744 hectares of farmland were washed away by the floodwaters.
“This is one of the most severe floods we have experienced in recent years. The damage is extensive, and our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones and those who have been displaced from their homes,” Mairiga said.
Victims Share Their Ordeal
Many of the displaced individuals have taken shelter in public school buildings, where they are enduring overcrowded and uncomfortable conditions. One of the affected residents, Hajara Musa from Gwaram LGA, shared her harrowing experience of the moment the floodwaters engulfed her home.
“We had no warning. Suddenly, the water was everywhere, rising so fast that we barely had time to grab our children and run. Everything we had is gone,” she said, with tears streaming down her face.
Another victim, Adamu Garba, from Kafin Hausa LGA, described the devastation of his farmland.
“I have lost my entire rice plantation. This is our main source of income, and now we have nothing left. We don’t know how we will survive the coming months,” he lamented.
Disruption to Infrastructure and Economy
The flood has not only affected homes and farmlands but also disrupted vital infrastructure. The major road linking the northwestern states to the northeast has been cut off, causing significant challenges for motorists and disrupting economic activities.
Abba Baba, Assistant Zonal Coordinator of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), acknowledged the disruption and promised that a temporary solution would be put in place to ensure the continuity of economic activities in the region.
“We are working around the clock to restore access and provide relief to the affected communities. The government is committed to ensuring that help reaches those in need as quickly as possible,” Baba said.
Government Response and Call for Vigilance
In the wake of the disaster, the state government has urged residents to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to avoid further casualties. Authorities have also assured the public that support will be provided to help affected families recover and rebuild their lives.
“We are coordinating with various agencies to ensure that relief materials, including food, shelter, and medical supplies, are distributed to the displaced. The government is fully committed to helping our people through this difficult time,” Mairiga emphasized.