A powerful flood has struck Kpautagi community in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, following hours of continuous rainfall from Friday night into early Saturday, June 14.
The downpour, described by locals as relentless, caused severe flooding that swept through homes and forced families to flee in the middle of the night.
Residents reported rising water levels that entered homes and destroyed belongings. Many families, caught off guard, had to evacuate with nothing but the clothes on their backs. The full extent of the destruction is still unknown, as floodwaters continue to hinder rescue and relief efforts.
As of now, no official number of casualties from the fresh flooding in Kpautagi has been released. However, locals fear that lives may have been lost. Community leaders say the government must respond swiftly to help residents recover and prevent a worsening situation.
Niger State Flood Disaster Death Toll Rises to 151
Earlier in the week, Mokwa town experienced a similar disaster. Floods that began late Wednesday and continued into Thursday have now killed 151 people, according to the state emergency agency. That number is up from 117 deaths initially reported.
Over 500 households have been affected, and more than 3,000 people have been displaced from their homes. Rescue workers are still combing through the wreckage in search of missing persons. The scale of the disaster has left many shocked and mourning. Authorities say they expect the number of displaced people to rise as more damage is uncovered.
Eyewitnesses said the flooding swept through large sections of the town, destroying buildings and washing away vehicles, crops, and household goods. Some families are still searching for missing members. Others are camped out in makeshift shelters, unsure of when they can return home.
Flooding Crisis Recalls Nigeria’s 2022 Tragedy
Nigeria faces regular flooding during the rainy season, which usually starts in April. The current events have reminded many of the 2022 floods, which were the worst in over ten years.
That year, more than 600 people died and over 1.4 million were displaced. Crops covering 440,000 hectares were wiped out, creating widespread food shortages and economic hardship.
This year, heavy rains have returned with destructive force. The latest flooding in Mokwa, along with the incident in Kpautagi, reveals that many areas remain highly vulnerable. Without proper flood management systems and disaster preparedness, communities will continue to suffer massive losses every rainy season.
Residents in Niger State are urging both state and federal governments to take urgent steps to address the problem. They want early warning systems, proper drainage, emergency shelters, and financial support for affected families. One resident said, “We need the government to act now before more people die.
Several citizens are frustrated by the slow response of the government and fear being left to handle the crisis on their own.
Others are demanding a coordinated plan to help displaced families and prevent future disasters. They say the government must take responsibility and protect vulnerable communities across the state.
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