In the aftermath of severe flooding that ravaged parts of Kaduna State, the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA), Dr. Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, has reported that over 200 houses were destroyed in the Zaria and Sabon-Gari Local Government Areas.
Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu revealed that despite advance warnings and predictions about the impending flood, some residents chose not to relocate from flood-prone areas, leading to significant property damage. The state government had previously urged residents to evacuate these vulnerable areas.
Speaking to journalists, Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu emphasized the critical importance of residents’ cooperation for their safety. He noted that the state government had undertaken various measures to mitigate the flood’s impact, such as desilting drainages and running sensitization campaigns to prepare for the flood.
“I am here today to address the recent devastating flood that affected Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas on Monday,” Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu said. “Despite our efforts to mitigate the impact, the flood has caused significant damage, with over 200 houses destroyed. We received predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) three months ago, and we took proactive measures to prepare for the flood.”
He identified several issues contributing to the severity of the damage: inadequate drainage systems, improper waste disposal, and the construction of buildings within waterways. The state government, under the governor’s direction, had undertaken a statewide desilting of old drainages, which helped reduce the flood’s impact in some areas. However, the refusal of some residents to evacuate exacerbated the damage.
Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu criticized the lack of adherence to safety advisories and urged residents to understand the critical importance of relocating from high-risk areas. He stated, “We have engaged with media outlets extensively, but the challenge remains in changing the mindset of those living in flood-prone areas. The issue of safety and security is not just the responsibility of the governor or the government but of every individual.”
The rainy season, he warned, is expected to be longer than usual, increasing the risk of further flooding. To support those affected, the state government has set up relief camps providing food, non-food items, and security. Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu reassured residents of the government’s commitment to their safety and urged them to cooperate with authorities to prevent further disasters.
“We must understand that the issue of security and safety is not solely the responsibility of the government but also of the individuals. Let us work together to prevent further disasters,” he concluded.