…Properties under threat.
by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
In what could be described as mind blowing devastating flood incident has reportedly hit popular Kaduna Kigo New Extension, in Kaduna North LGA of the state, leaving residents homeless and properties heavily threatened.
The flood is, however, a yearly phenomenon that brings out dangerous animals and microorganisms, threatening human life and potentially leading to the outbreak of cholera and other related diseases, and making life unbearable for the residents.
A resident of Kigo Extension, Mr. Bankole Sunday, who spoke to newsmen, said “The flood occurred on Friday, September 21, 2024, and has taken over the last and second-to-the-last street in the area.
“We are appealing to the Kaduna State Government to come to our aid as our minds are unrest, and we are suffering a great deal in this flood menace.”
Another resident in the area, Mr. Haruna Samaila, also said “The flood started two days ago, thinking it would subside, but as at yesterday (Monday) night, it became worse; our compounds and roads are flooded with dirty water that consists of dangerous animals and micro organisms. Please, convey our message to the government.”
However, record has it that the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) has warned residents of seven local government areas, including those in flood-prone communities along waterways, to relocate immediately to safer areas, including Kigo extension.
Similar flooding incidents have been reported in other parts of Nigeria, including Adamawa and Borno States.
According to reports, in Adamawa, the Kiri Dam breach caused severe flooding, affecting 12,583 individuals and destroying 298 buildings.
The floods have also damaged critical buildings, and disrupted access to hospitals, schools, and markets. The situation is dire, with residents in need of immediate intervention.
In Kaduna, reports allegedly had it that the affected areas are Kigo Extension, Kabala Coastain, Ungwan Rimi, Tudun Wada, Nassarawa, and other waterline areas.
Residents of all the affected areas are calling on the Kaduna State Government to address this flood menace, to avert the outbreak of cholera and other related diseases.
“Considering the situation in the aforementioned areas, the Kaduna State Government is charged to reintroduce monthly environmental sanitation in the state and conduct house-to-house environmental sanitation inspections intermittently, to keep the state clean and free of diseases.
“The State Government is also urged to take immediate action to address the flood menace and provide relief to affected residents.
“Kaduna State has experienced flooding in the past. With the 2022 floods affecting 57 locations in 14 local government areas, the State Government must take proactive measures to prevent such disasters.
“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other humanitarian organizations are enjoined to provide support to the affected residents.
“The Kaduna State Government should also consider implementing measures to prevent future flooding, such as improving drainage systems and relocating residents from flood-prone areas,” they advised.
In the meantime, residents are advised to take precautions to protect themselves and their property. The situation remains dire, and immediate action is needed to mitigate the effects of the flood.
“The Kaduna State Government must prioritize the safety and well-being of its residents. The flood has brought immense hardship to the residents of Kigo Extension and other affected areas. “The State Government’s prompt response is crucial in alleviating the suffering of the affected residents.
The people of Kaduna State deserve better, as it is the responsibility of the government to ensure their safety and well-being,” according to affected victims.