The Kaduna State Government has issued an urgent appeal to residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately following a devastating flood that struck the Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas on Monday.
According to the PUNCH, the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, addressed the media on Tuesday night, revealing that the state government had implemented several measures to mitigate the impact of the flood.
These measures included the desilting of drainage systems and conducting sensitization campaigns aimed at educating residents on the risks.
Despite these efforts and early warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu expressed concern that some residents had ignored the evacuation orders. As a result, over 200 houses were destroyed in the Zaria and Sabon-Gari LGAs. He emphasized that the cooperation of residents is critical to ensuring their safety in the face of such natural disasters.
“In preparation for the predicted flooding, we took proactive steps to address three major issues: inadequate drainage systems, the dumping of refuse, and the construction of structures within waterways,” said Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu.
“These efforts helped minimize the impact in other areas, but unfortunately, the refusal of some residents to relocate led to significant property damage.”
Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu also urged farmers and other residents to take advantage of alternative land provided by the state government for farming and to consider relocating to urban centers for their safety. He further warned that the ongoing rainy season is expected to last longer than usual, increasing the risk of further flooding across the state.
“We have engaged with radio stations repeatedly to spread awareness, but it appears that some people still do not grasp the seriousness of the situation,” he noted.
“Security and safety are collective responsibilities. It’s not just about having a responsive governor; every resident must also play their part in safeguarding their lives and property.”
In response to the disaster, the state government has established camps for those affected, providing food, non-food items, and security to displaced residents.
Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens but stressed that individuals must also take responsibility for their own safety.
“I appeal to the citizens of Kaduna State to cooperate with the government in ensuring their safety,” he said.
“Preventing further disasters requires joint effort. Let us work together to safeguard our lives and our communities.”
The Kaduna State Government continues to monitor the situation closely and urges all residents in vulnerable areas to heed the evacuation advice immediately.
