The Bauchi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) says floods killed no fewer than 10 persons and destroyed several houses and farmlands across the state.

Adams Nayola, an agency official, confirmed the figure in an interview on Wednesday in Bauchi.

“At least 10 people lost their lives while several hectares of farmlands and houses were washed away in some parts of the state,” Mr Nayola said.

He said the situation had forced many residents to flee elsewhere.

Mr Nayola said the agency was still gathering data on farmlands and houses destroyed across the state.

“The most affected local government areas are Jama’are, Giade, Misau, Dambam, Zaki, Darazo, Kirfi, Itas-Gadau, Shira, Gamawa and Toro. Although the flood affected 19 out of the 20 local government areas of Bauchi state, only twelve local government areas are worst hit,” Mr Nayola added.

He said the flood cut off some communities in Jama’are and Misau local government areas, adding that the latest incident was recorded in Zaki local government.

Mr Nayola also explained that the agency was doing everything possible to provide relief materials to affected persons.

The director further disclosed that SEMA had intensified public enlightenment urging people in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer places. 

(NAN)