Mokwa: The Senate has urged the Federal Government to investigate the recent flood in Mokwa, Niger, and similar incidents across the country. This investigation aims to develop long-term solutions, including enhanced flood control infrastructure and early warning systems to prevent future occurrences.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Senate’s resolutions followed a motion by Sen. Peter Jiya (PDP-Niger) and co-sponsored by over 20 senators during a plenary session. The motion, titled ‘Catastrophic Flood Disaster in Mokwa, Niger state and Need for Proactive Action to Forestall Future Occurrence,’ highlighted the urgent need for government intervention.
NAN reports that the Senate observed a minute of silence to honor those who lost their lives to the flood. The legislative body also called for the federal government to expedite the relief packages promised during the Vice-President’s visit to the flood site.
Senator Jiya recounted that on May 29 and May 30, Mokwa experienced a devastating flood due to heavy rainfall, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction of property valued at over N10 billion. More than 700 individuals, including pupils from four Islamic schools, lost their lives, but only about 300 bodies have been recovered.
The disaster severely impacted critical infrastructure, uprooting rail lines, collapsing roads, and affecting two bridges. Jiya noted that he had previously urged the Ecological Fund Office to address the inactive waterways in Mokwa and Kutigi towns, known for flooding risks. Despite warnings from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) about heavy rainfall and flooding, the response from relevant ministries and agencies was inadequate.
The Federal Government has intervened through the Vice-President, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA). However, the disaster’s scale has overwhelmed available resources, necessitating increased relief measures to support affected victims.
Sen. Victor Umeh (LP-Anambra) emphasized the disaster’s severity, labeling it a national tragedy. He stressed the importance of preparedness, urging agencies to implement necessary measures as heavy rains are expected in July. Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who chaired the session, extended condolences to the government and people of Niger.
