By John Moses
Authorities in Nigeria’s Niger State have confirmed that more than 700 people remain unaccounted for following a devastating flood that swept through Mokwa Community in the state’s Mokwa Local Government Area.
Governor Umaru Bago, represented by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, made the disclosure on Tuesday while receiving Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, a former Chief Security Officer to the late military ruler General Sani Abacha, who led a delegation on a condolence visit to the Government House in Minna.
According to Bago, the flood has so far claimed 207 lives, left over 3,000 families displaced, and caused significant destruction to infrastructure and homes.
“More than 700 persons are still missing, and we are yet to confirm their whereabouts. This flood has caused immense devastation,” the governor said.
The disaster also damaged 400 homes, with an additional 283 residences and 50 shops completely destroyed.
Describing the incident as a “national disaster,” Bago thanked private citizens and corporate organisations for their support and donations, while noting that investigations were underway to determine the root cause of the flooding. He said the state government had engaged professionals for a comprehensive assessment.
During his visit, Al-Mustapha expressed deep sympathy on behalf of his delegation, which included prominent figures from across the country.
“We are here to extend our condolences to the government and people of Niger State over this tragedy,” he said. “We will also meet with the traditional council in Mokwa to offer prayers and discuss ways to prevent future disasters.”
He emphasised the need to improve urban planning and disaster preparedness to reduce the risk of similar incidents.
Earlier in the day, Al-Mustapha and his delegation also paid a courtesy visit to former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (retired).
