After the recent devastating flood in Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas, the Kaduna State Government is urging residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate promptly.
Dr. Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, spoke to the press on Tuesday evening, highlighting the government’s efforts to lessen the flood’s impact.
This included clearing drainage systems and conducting awareness campaigns.
Despite prior warnings and forecasts, some residents resisted moving, resulting in the destruction of more than 200 homes in Zaria and Sabon-Gari LGAs.
Mazadu emphasized that residents’ cooperation is vital for their safety.
He also encouraged residents, especially farmers, to use the alternative land provided by the government for farming and relocate to urban centers.
He said, “I am here today to address the recent devastating flood that affected Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas on Monday. Despite our efforts to mitigate the impact, the flood has caused significant damage, with over 200 houses destroyed.
“As you may recall, we received predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) three months ago, and we took proactive measures to prepare for the flood.
“Our assessment identified three key issues: inadequate drainage systems, the dumping of refuse, and structures erected within waterways. We presented our findings to the governor, who directed stakeholders to embark on a statewide desilting of old drainage systems.
“I am pleased to report that this exercise has been completed, which helped minimise the impact of the flood in other predicted areas. However, despite our efforts, some residents refused to evacuate, leading to the destruction of properties.”
Mazadu added, “We have already, for weeks, had interactions with some radio stations over 15 times, but why are we having these challenges? The problem is that we are yet to understand the essence and purpose of our lives.
“I keep saying, and I told the stakeholders, and I equally told the people within these flood-prone areas, that the issue of security and safety is not just about the governor; it’s not just because we have a governor who listens, we equally need to understand that we must safeguard our lives and property.
“Why must we risk our lives to the detriment of going to farm or living where you think it is your right? I think this is why we are here. Let’s communicate to our brothers and sisters about the negative effects and dangers of living in flood-prone areas.
“On behalf of the government of Mallam Uba Sani, we are pleading with the entire state, particularly people living within flood-prone areas, to evacuate to urban centres.”
He cautioned that the prolonged rainy season would heighten the flood risk statewide.
To mitigate this, the state government has established relief camps, offering essential supplies, security, and support to affected individuals.
The official stressed that public awareness and cooperation are crucial in preventing future disasters, emphasizing that while the government is dedicated to safeguarding its citizens, residents must also take ownership of their safety and property.
“I appeal to the citizens of Kaduna State to cooperate with the government in ensuring their safety. We must understand that the issue of security and safety is not just the responsibility of the government, but also that of individuals. Let us work together to prevent further disasters,” he noted.
