The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has expressed deep sorrow over the deadly flood that swept through Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, killing many people and destroying homes.
In a statement on Friday, the NGF chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, said the forum was shocked by the level of destruction caused by the flood. He also sent condolences to Governor Usman Bago, the government, and the people of Niger State.
“The Nigeria Governors’ Forum stands in solidarity with the government and people of Niger State on the devastating flood that has wreaked huge havoc in Mokwa town of the state,” AbdulRazaq said.
“We are shocked by the magnitude of the flooding, which has resulted in the loss of lives and properties in the community.
“We sincerely commiserate with the affected families and express our support to the state government at this difficult time,” he added.
The statement follows reports that at least 21 people have died and many others are still missing after the flood hit the communities of Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa on Wednesday night. Among the dead are 12 members of the same family and over 50 Almajirai (young Islamic students) who are feared to have drowned.
AbdulRazaq praised the efforts of Governor Bago and the emergency teams helping the victims.
“We commend the interventions of the Niger State Government and its coordination with the emergency responders to support the victims of this disaster,” he said.
He also pointed out that this incident is another reminder of the growing effects of climate change.
“This flood again reminds us of the stark realities of climate change and the accompanying effects on how we live,” AbdulRazaq stated.
He promised that the forum would continue working with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the National Emergency Management Agency to support Nigerians facing climate-related disasters.
“We pray God to console families who have lost loved ones and properties in the Mokwa incident, and we urge citizens to support the government’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” he said.
