Severe flooding has hit homes and businesses in Bachure New Extension, a residential area in Jimeta, Yola North Local Government Area of Adamawa State. The disaster occurred after a heavy downpour on Monday morning, which caused drainages to overflow, inundating streets and homes. Residents reported significant damage to household items and some were forced to evacuate their homes.
While the rest of Jimeta metropolis managed to cope without major flooding, Bachure was severely affected. Residents expressed frustration over the inadequate drainage system, which they believe contributed to the flooding. Ephraim Timothy, a local resident, criticized the drainage system, stating that it was meant to alleviate problems but has instead become a major issue due to poor maintenance and blockages. “This drainage was meant to solve our problems, but it’s now the main reason our community is under water,” Timothy said.
In response to the flooding, the Niger State Governor, Muhammad Umaru Bago, announced a donation of N1 billion to victims of recent floods in Mokwa Local Government Area. Governor Bago made the announcement while assessing houses destroyed by the flood, emphasizing the need for residents to avoid waterways to prevent loss of life and property. He assured that all donations from the Federal Government, individuals, government agencies, and donor organizations would be used appropriately to assist the victims. The governor also reiterated the state government’s commitment to constructing a permanent drainage system and concrete bridges in Mokwa town to prevent future disasters.
Meanwhile, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has initiated a sensitization campaign to educate communities on preventing future floods and mitigating their impact. NOA Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, disclosed this during a sympathy visit to flood victims in Mokwa. He emphasized the importance of taking precautions to prevent disasters and stated that NOA staff at the state and local government levels are working with other stakeholders to ensure the well-being of those affected. The agency is also collaborating with other organizations to fumigate affected areas and ensure safety in Mokwa town.
The flooding in Bachure New Extension serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by inadequate infrastructure and the importance of proactive measures to prevent such disasters. Residents and authorities alike must work together to address the underlying issues and implement sustainable solutions to protect communities from future flooding.
In conclusion, while the recent floods in Bachure New Extension have caused significant hardship for residents, the responses from local and state authorities, including financial assistance and awareness campaigns, offer hope for recovery and future prevention. It is crucial for all stakeholders to collaborate in addressing the root causes of flooding and ensuring the safety and well-being of affected communities.
