The Kaduna State government is taking measures to ensure that further damages owing to flooding in the state is reduced, if not totally prevented. That is why it has started to alert farmers and residents of the need to evacuate the areas that are prone to flood in the state.
The state government made the appeal during an interaction with residents of the flood-prone areas, asking them to evacuate immediately. This action follows the devastating flood that affected Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas on Monday.
The Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, said the state government had taken measures to mitigate the impact of the flood, including desilting drainages and conducting sensitisation campaigns.
Mazadu decried some residents’ negligence to the delicate issue despite predictions and warnings, which has led to the destruction of over 200 houses in Zaria and Sabon-Gari LGs. He also urged farmers to take advantage of alternative land provided by the state government for farming and to relocate to urban centres.
He said, “I am here today to address the recent devastating flood that affected Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas on Monday. Despite our efforts to mitigate the impact, the flood has caused significant damage, with over 200 houses destroyed.
“As you may recall, we received predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) three months ago, and we took proactive measures to prepare for the flood.
“Our assessment identified three key issues: inadequate drainages, dumping of refuse, and structures erected within waterways. We presented our findings to the governor, who directed the stakeholders to embark on a statewide desilting of old drainages.
“I am pleased to report that this exercise has been completed, which helped minimise the impact of the flood in other predicted areas.However, despite our efforts, some residents refused to evacuate, leading to the destruction of properties.”
“Why must we risk our lives to the detriment of going to farm or living where you think it is your right? I think this is why we are here. Let’s communicate to our brothers and sisters on the negative effect and dangers of living in flood-prone areas”.
According to him, the state government has set up camps for those affected, providing food, non-food items, and security as the government is working to ensure that residents understand the value of their lives and the importance of cooperating with the government to prevent further disasters in the state.