The Niger State Government has disclosed that more than 700 people remain unaccounted for following the devastating flood that struck Mokwa town, the headquarters of Mokwa Local Government Area.
Governor Umaru Bago, represented by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, made the revelation on Tuesday in Minna while receiving a condolence delegation led by Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer to the late Gen. Sani Abacha.
So far, 207 deaths have been confirmed, and over 3,000 households have been displaced due to the disaster. Additionally, about 400 houses sustained damage, while 283 homes and 50 shops were completely destroyed.
Describing the tragedy as a national disaster, Governor Bago said the state government is working with professional bodies to investigate the root cause of the flooding. He added that assessment reports are still being awaited.
Major Al-Mustapha, who led a group of sympathisers from various parts of the country, said the purpose of their visit was to offer condolences and seek preventive measures against future occurrences.
“Our visit is to express condolences and explore ways to prevent a recurrence,” he said, noting that the delegation also plans to meet with the traditional council in Mokwa.
In a related development, Governor Bago revealed that a large proportion of those affected by the flood were non-indigenes.
“A significant number of the victims were non-indigenes, making up over 50 per cent of those affected by the May 29 flood,” he stated.
Speaking while receiving relief items from Veritas University, Abuja, the governor, again represented by his deputy, noted that documentation of victims is ongoing, including the collection of bank details to enable cash transfers from donated funds.
“Each affected family is expected to receive no less than N1 million. Host families accommodating displaced victims will also be supported,” he added.
The delegation from Veritas University, led by Rev. Dr. Peter Bakwaph on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, donated 150 mattresses, mosquito repellents, and other relief materials. The institution also disclosed that some of its students lost family members in the disaster.
