Over 10,000 Displaced, Farmlands Destroyed As Flood Wrecks Havoc In Zamfara
A flooding incident has left a trail of destruction in Zamfara State, displacing over 10,000 people and destroying farmlands and properties worth millions of naira.
The flood, caused by intense rainfall, has affected 10,291 households in the Gummi Local Government Area of the state.
Addressing Governor, Dauda Lawal on Saturday, the Emir of Gummi, Justice Hassan Lawal, stated that the disaster has resulted in widespread damage, with many residents left homeless and seeking shelter in government buildings, schools, and other temporary facilities.
Governor Lawal had paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to the local government, especially Gummi town and the Gayari community to assess the extent of the damage caused by the flood.
Briefing the governor, the Emir provided a breakdown of the situation in the local government.
“Following our discussion with experts, a permanent solution seems possible. According to the assessment, 10,291 households were affected, but we understand that the governor will go around to see for himself,” he said.
In response, the governor sympathised with the flood victims and announced an immediate relief package of ₦100,000 and the distribution of 10,000 bags of assorted grains, along with mosquito nets and blankets.
Governor Lawal also pledged to address long-term flood management by constructing new drainage systems, repairing existing dams, and potentially building additional ones.
“Today, I am in Gummi Local Government Area to offer my condolences and conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the communities devastated by flooding caused by heavy rainfall last week,” he said.
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“I would like to take this opportunity to inform you that I have donated 10,000 bags of food, including rice, maize, and millet, to be distributed among the flood victims. The trucks are already on their way to Gummi for distribution.
“On behalf of the Zamfara State Government, I am also providing ₦100 million in support for the affected victims. Additionally, all affected victims will be allocated land away from the danger zone so that they can build new houses,” he said.
Residents of Gummi expressed their gratitude to the governor for visiting them after having sent three different delegations earlier.
“We are happy to see the governor visit us. This shows he cares for us. Two-thirds of the people in this community are now homeless because of the flood. For the governor to come and see the situation, that alone has given us hope.
The state government has set up a committee led by elder statesman Salihu Gumi to oversee the distribution of these relief materials and ensure that all affected individuals receive the necessary assistance.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
