Amid rising fears of a worsening flood crisis across Nigeria, at least 153 lives have been lost in Niger State following devastating floods that swept through Mokwa Local Government Area, even as other states begin evacuations to avert similar tragedies.
Emergency authorities confirmed on Sunday that two more corpses were recovered from beneath a collapsed bridge in Mokwa, raising the death toll to 153. Over 3,000 residents have been displaced, with fears mounting over a potential outbreak of disease due to decaying bodies and unsanitary conditions in temporary shelters.
“The smell coming from where the corpses were recovered is terrible. The government should act quickly before it results in disease,” said Alhassan Kolo, a local resident assisting with recovery efforts.
In response to the disaster, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) reported that 503 households were affected, 11 people injured, and three bridges destroyed. The agency added that surrounding communities such as Ndawko and Rabba also suffered damage, though no further fatalities have been recorded.
The Federal Ministry of Health says it is collaborating with emergency officials to prevent a health crisis. Idris Ibrahim, Director of Public Health at the Ministry, stated that cholera test kits have been prepared and sensitisation efforts are ongoing at displaced persons’ camps.
The Federal Government had earlier warned in April that over 1,200 communities across 30 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, were at risk of severe flooding between April and November 2025. Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, identified 33 “high flood-risk” states, blaming climate change for increasing the frequency and intensity of such disasters.
In anticipation of further flooding, states like Nasarawa, Anambra, Borno, Kebbi, and Bayelsa have activated evacuation plans. In Anambra, residents of flood-prone areas along the River Niger have begun relocating to higher ground as water levels continue to rise.
“We have advised our people living in farm settlements to move and start harvesting their crops immediately,” said Pa Israel Onyeme, a community leader in Omor, Ayamelum LGA.
The Anambra State Emergency Management Agency also identified 10 local government areas as high-risk zones and said preparations are underway to relocate the elderly, women, and children to designated camps.
State governments have commenced desilting of drainage systems and clearing waterways in anticipation of further rainfall. However, concerns persist among citizens about the timeliness and adequacy of relief materials. Some displaced persons in Mokwa alleged that relief items brought by government officials were not properly distributed.
“Our school shelter is uncomfortable, and although they bring food and take pictures, they don’t share the items,” Kolo alleged.
As Nigeria faces yet another season of catastrophic flooding, affected communities continue to appeal for prompt government intervention, sustained health support, and transparent relief efforts to avert further loss of lives and property.
