Flooding in north-central Nigeria has led to over 200 confirmed deaths, with survivors grappling with loss and traumatic experiences as they search for answers.
Tragedy Strikes as Deadly Floods Devastate Communities in Nigeria
Tragedy Strikes as Deadly Floods Devastate Communities in Nigeria
In the wake of catastrophic flooding, families face unimaginable losses, mourning loved ones and enduring devastating material losses in Mokwa Town.
Adamu Yusuf's life irrevocably changed when floodwaters swept through his community, Tiffin Maza, taking with it nine members of his family, including his wife and newborn baby. The 36-year-old father recalls the harrowing moment when his wife jolted him awake, urging him to rally the family together. As they attempted to escape the rising waters, panic overwhelmed the situation, separating him from his loved ones. "I watched helplessly as water washed away my family," he recounted, expressing disbelief at the scale of the tragedy.
Since the initial disaster, local authorities have reported a staggering rise in the death tally, increasing from 110 to over 200 victims. The grim reality of the situation has left the community engulfed in grief, as relocated residents sift through debris that remains of their homes, including soaked clothing and damaged roofing materials.
Standing amid the ruins, Mr. Yusuf reflected on his losses. "I lost everything to this flood," he said. "But the most painful is that of my family. The only valuable I have now is this cloth I am wearing which was even given to me by my friend." His pain is echoed by 19-year-old Isa Muhammed, who mourns his teacher and family friend after their house collapsed under the flood's fury.
Residents reported that floodwaters reached heights exceeding seven feet (2.1 meters) in parts of the community, and as the water receded, revealing wreckage, a foul odor led many to believe that there are still unaccounted bodies buried beneath the muck. An elderly resident, Ramat Sulaiman, described witnessing children trapped in a Quranic school that was swept away, a traumatic image that haunts her.
As families strive to recover, misinformation regarding the flood’s cause continues to circulate among residents. Local leaders and victims alike debate whether heavy rainfall or another phenomenon led to the catastrophic surge, with many pointing to a mysterious water source triggering such a flood.
In response to the disaster, Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency has started providing relief and treatment for injured victims, while displaced individuals have been taken to temporary camps.
As the rainy season is projected to persist for up to 200 days this year, many communities remain on high alert for further flooding. Amid these challenges, survivors like Mr. Yusuf reveal that no material gain can outweigh the pain of their losses. “It’s just God,” he stated, lamenting the disheartening lack of answers and searching for acceptance in the face of tragedy.
