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The Kaduna State Government called on residents living in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately following severe flooding in Sabengari and Zaria Local Government Areas on Monday.
The Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, told newsmen late on Tuesday that the state government had taken measures to mitigate the impact of the floods, including clearing drainage systems and conducting sensitization campaigns.
Mazadu noted that despite predictions and warnings, some residents refused to relocate, resulting in the destruction of over 200 houses in Zaria and Sabang-Gari Local Government Areas. He stressed that the cooperation of residents was essential to ensure their safety.
He further urged residents, especially farmers, to avail alternative land provided by the state government for cultivation and relocate to urban centres.
He said: “I am here today to address the severe flooding that occurred on Monday. The floods affected the Sabong-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas. Despite our efforts to mitigate the impact, the floods still caused heavy losses with over 200 houses destroyed.
“You may recall that three months ago we received a forecast from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and took proactive measures to deal with the floods.
“Our assessment found three key issues: inadequate drainage, garbage dumping and structures built within waterways. We presented our findings to the governor, who directed stakeholders to desilt old drainage systems across the state.
“I am pleased to report that the exercise was completed and this helped to minimise the impact of flooding on other forecast areas. However, despite our efforts, some residents refused to evacuate resulting in property damage.”
Mazadou added: “We have interacted with some radio stations more than 15 times over the weeks, but why are we facing these challenges? The problem is that we have not understood the essence and purpose of our lives.
“I have been saying, I tell the stakeholders, I tell the people in these flood-prone areas, that safety is not just about the governor; it is not just because we have a governor who listens, we also need to understand that we have to protect our lives and our properties.
“Why should we risk our lives to farm or live in a place you think you have a right to? I guess that’s why we are here. Let’s convey to our brothers and sisters the negative effects and dangers of living in flood-prone areas.
“On behalf of the Malam Ubasani state government, I implore the people of the state, especially those living in flood-prone areas to evacuate to urban centres.”
He further warned that the rainy season will be longer than usual, increasing the risk of flooding across the state.
According to him, the state government has set up camps for the affected people and provided food, non-food items and security.
He also added that the government is working to ensure that residents understand the value of life and the importance of cooperating with the government to prevent further disasters in the state.
The SEMA chief stressed that the government is committed to ensuring the safety of citizens, but residents must also take responsibility for their own lives and properties.
“I call on the citizens of Kaduna State to cooperate with the government to ensure their safety. We must understand that security issues are not only the responsibility of the government but also the responsibility of individuals. Let us work together to prevent disasters from happening again,” he added.
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