A DEVASTATING flood has wreaked havoc across Jigawa State, claiming the lives of 16 people and displacing 3,834 residents in ten local government areas (LGAs).
The flood, which followed days of relentless rainfall, has submerged entire communities, leaving thousands homeless and destroying vast swathes of farmland.
The Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Haruna Mairiga, confirmed the grim statistics during a press briefing on Wednesday in Dutse, the state capital.
He disclosed that approximately 3,936 homes were destroyed, and a total of 2,744 hectares of farmland were washed away by the floods.
“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.
Many of the displaced have sought refuge in public school buildings, where they face overcrowded and uncomfortable conditions. One of the victims, Hajara Musa from Gwaram LGA, recounted the terrifying moment the floodwaters inundated 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.
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.
