Authorities in Niger State have confirmed the recovery of two additional decomposed bodies following the devastating flood that struck Mokwa town, the administrative headquarters of Mokwa Local Government Area, on May 29.
The tragic incident, triggered by torrential rainfall, had previously submerged homes, displaced thousands, and claimed numerous lives.
According to Abdullahi Baba Arah, Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the newly discovered bodies were found downstream from a bridge, where floodwaters had earlier surged with force. Arah explained that a fresh bout of heavy rainfall on Wednesday eroded sand dunes along the water channel, revealing the corpses previously buried beneath.
“The two decomposed bodies were recovered today downstream of the bridge. Yesterday’s rain, which followed the flood route, washed away the sand dunes concealing them. Unfortunately, the bodies were beyond recognition,” he told Daily Trust on Thursday.
Growing Human Toll and Displacement
The human impact of the disaster continues to worsen. Recent figures released by the state government paint a grim picture: over 207 people have been confirmed dead, while more than 700 remain missing nearly a month after the disaster. In addition, over 3,000 households have been displaced, forcing many residents into temporary shelters and uncertain living conditions.
The government also reported widespread infrastructural damage, with approximately 400 houses affected. Of these, 283 homes and 50 shops were completely destroyed, further compounding the economic hardship in the area.
State Response and National Attention
During a condolence meeting held on Tuesday in Minna, Niger State capital, Governor Umar Bago—represented by his Deputy, Yakubu Garba—expressed deep sorrow over the calamity, calling it a “national disaster.” He emphasized the need for both immediate relief efforts and long-term solutions.
“This tragedy is not just a local incident; it is a national concern that deserves urgent attention and comprehensive investigation,” Governor Bago stated.
The state government has reportedly begun collaborating with experts and professional organizations to assess the root causes of the flooding and recommend preventive measures. However, official reports from these assessments have yet to be released.
Condolence Delegation and Prevention Efforts
A high-profile condolence visit led by Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, a former Chief Security Officer to the late General Sani Abacha, was also received by the state government. The delegation included sympathisers from across the country who came to express solidarity with the victims and affected communities.
Major Al-Mustapha noted that beyond offering condolences, the delegation aims to engage with local authorities and traditional rulers in Mokwa to explore strategies for flood prevention and improved disaster management.
“Our visit is not just about mourning the dead but about taking proactive steps to ensure such a disaster never happens again,” he remarked.
As search efforts continue and the number of missing persons remains alarmingly high, the people of Mokwa and the wider Niger State are still grappling with the aftermath of one of the worst natural disasters in the state’s recent history.
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