Mokwa Flood Disaster Was Ordained By God – Babangida
Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has described the recent devastating flood in Mokwa, Niger State, which claimed nearly 200 lives, as an act of God and beyond human control.
The flood, which ravaged communities in Mokwa Local Government Area, left hundreds displaced and destroyed properties worth millions of naira.
Speaking at his Minna residence during a Sallah homage by a delegation from the Niger State government led by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, Babangida expressed sorrow over the disaster and offered his condolences to affected families and the state government.
He said, “What happened in Mokwa is unfortunate but it is ordained by Allah. It is beyond our powers and this is why we should all continue to pray for the souls of the deceased.”
Babangida also commended Governor Umaru Bago’s developmental efforts and urged the government to sustain them.
Responding, Deputy Governor Garba said, “We are aware that the General is disturbed by the recent incident in Mokwa and all we need from all and sundry is prayers. We will also appreciate your fatherly role at all times especially at this trying period.”
He assured the former president that the state government would continue to uphold his legacy of service to the country.
The Mokwa flood has been described as one of the worst in recent times. Survivors told heartbreaking stories of losing entire families to the raging waters.
One woman, Rabi Musa, said she lost her husband and three children as they tried to escape. Another resident, Malam Balarabe Isah, lost his three wives and seven children, calling the experience traumatic.
Aside from the loss of lives, the flood has severely impacted the local economy. Many businesses were washed away, and commercial activity has halted. Mokwa General Hospital is overwhelmed with patients, with fears of disease outbreaks due to the lack of clean water and electricity.
The state government has promised to investigate the disaster’s root cause and work to prevent future occurrences, while relief efforts are being called for to support survivors and aid community recovery.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
