The Sokoto State House of Assembly has urged immediate action to divert floodwaters submerging five villages along the River Rima in the Sabon Birni Local Government Area of the state.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Al-Mustapha Aminu (APC–Sabon Birni North) and seconded by Sa’idu Ibrahim (APC–Sabon Birni South) during the plenary on Wednesday.

Presenting the motion, Mr Aminu explained that a recent downpour had led to severe flooding, displacing residents and disrupting socio-economic activities in the affected communities.

He noted that the road linking Goronyo to Sabon Birni had been cut off at Gajit and Zalla Bango villages, rendering it impassable for motorists due to the volume of water.

Mr Aminu said, “This disruption has not only affected daily activities but has also hampered emergency response and supply routes. In view of this, I appeal to this House to urgently call on the state government and relevant agencies to intervene by diverting the floodwaters. Such intervention will restore access, ease transportation challenges, and enable displaced residents to return to their normal lives.’’

He listed the villages submerged by floodwaters to include Makuwana, Dangawo, Faru Kumbula, Infaruna, and Magajin Dawaki.

Mr Aminu also appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to immediately mobilise relief materials to the affected communities to cushion the sufferings of the victims.

In a related development, the assembly adopted a motion seeking the construction of additional blocks, an access road, and the provision of more medical equipment at Amanawa Infectious Diseases Hospital.

The motion, moved by Sirajo Shuni (APC–Dange Shuni) and seconded by Abdullahi Randa (PDP–Tureta), emphasised the urgent need for upgrading the facility, considering its historic background and significance in healthcare delivery in the state.

Mr Shuni pointed out that the hospital lacked adequate infrastructure, furniture, and fittings to support effective operations.

“The hospital requires additional blocks, including a dedicated paediatric ward and patient toilets, as well as the construction of an access road linking the hospital’s main entrance to its internal facilities.

“This will go a long way in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare service delivery in the state,” he said.

The deputy speaker, Kabiru Ibrahim (APC–Kware), who presided over the plenary, put the motions to a voice vote, and they were unanimously adopted after contributions from members. 

(NAN)