Jigawa flood death toll rises to 16

Severe flooding across 10 local government areas in Jigawa State has resulted in the deaths of at least 16 people and displaced 3,936 households.

The disaster has also washed away 2,744 hectares of farmland.

Haruna Mariga, Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), reported on Wednesday that the majority of fatalities were due to the collapse of mud houses and boat accidents.

He stressed that the flooding has had a severe impact on agricultural practices and livelihoods in the region.

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Mariga said, “The flooding has displaced 3,936 households, affecting 3,834 individuals. Additionally, 2,744 hectares of farmland have been destroyed, and as of Wednesday, 16 lives have been lost. The primary causes of death include canoe overloads, building collapses and drowning.”

The executive secretary expressed concern that as the rainy season progresses, the situation may deteriorate further, potentially exacerbating the damage to families, livestock and crops.

In response to the crisis, the Jigawa State government established a flood assessment committee, which has been working on recommendations to mitigate the impact of flooding disasters.