The Niger State Government has confirmed that the death toll from last week’s devastating flood in Mokwa Local Government Area has climbed to 200, up from an earlier figure of 153.
In a grim update, Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba disclosed that more than 1,000 residents of the three worst-hit communities remain unaccounted for, raising fears that the number of fatalities could continue to rise.
He said the state has so far recorded the displacement of over 3,000 people and the destruction of approximately 2,000 houses, with critical infrastructure such as roads and three bridges also swept away.
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Garba made the disclosure on Monday while receiving Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, who visited the state to commiserate with the government and affected communities.
“The most worrisome aspect is the number of people still missing,” the deputy governor said.
“We’ve gone from house to house and, based on the reports we received, over 1,000 individuals remain unaccounted for. These are people no one has seen since the flood. It’s feared they may have been swept away.
“As of today, the number of confirmed deaths stands at about 200, but this figure may rise. The scale of displacement is huge, and property losses are equally staggering.”
In a show of solidarity, Peter Obi donated ₦20 million to support relief efforts and expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy.
“We came here in person to stand with the people and government of Niger State because this disaster affects all of us as Nigerians,” Obi said.
“I pray for the souls of those who lost their lives and for strength and healing for the survivors and their families.”
He commended the state government for its swift response and called for enhanced disaster management efforts to cushion the long-term impact on affected communities.
The state government has appealed for further humanitarian support and national attention to assist in recovery and rebuilding efforts.
