The Niger State government says that over 700 people remain missing following the recent flooding in Mokwa Community, located in Mokwa Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger disclosed this on Tuesday, June 17, when he received Maj. Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer to the late Gen. Sani Abacha, and his associates during a condolence visit over the recent flood in Minna.
Bago, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Mr. Yakubu Garba, also confirmed that 207 people have been confirmed dead, and over 3,000 households displaced due to the disaster.
“Over 700 persons are still missing and we are yet to ascertain where they are. The flooding has caused extensive damage,” he said.
He further explained that the flood destroyed 400 houses, with 283 homes and 50 shops completely wiped out.
Governor Bago expressed gratitude to individuals and corporate organisations for their support, noting that the incident should be regarded as a national disaster.
He added that the state government is working with professional organisations to determine the root cause of the flooding and is awaiting the outcome of ongoing assessments.
Earlier during the visit, Al-Mustapha said the purpose of the delegation’s trip was to express sympathy to the Niger State government and the people of Mokwa following the devastating impact of the flood.
“We are here to register our condolences over the flood incident that happened in Mokwa, looking at the heavy losses and its impact on the state.
“We will meet with the traditional council, especially the chairman in Mokwa, and pray that the incident doesn’t happen again,” he said.
He noted that the delegation included influential individuals from across Nigeria who aim to offer both moral and material support to the affected communities and authorities.
He also said the group plans to engage with traditional leaders to explore ways of preventing future disasters and improving town planning and living conditions.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Al-Mustapha and his delegation had earlier visited former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (Rtd).
