The Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency has said floods that ravaged Zaria and Sabon-Gari Local Government Areas on Monday destroyed over 200 houses.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday night,

KADSEMA Executive Secretary, Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, lamented that some residents refused to relocate from the area, despite flood predictions and warnings.

Mr Hayatu-Mazadu however stated that the state government was working to mitigate the impact of the flood by desilting drainage systems and engaging in sensitisation.

He said, “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 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 minimize the impact of the flood in other predicted areas. However, despite our efforts, some residents refused to evacuate, leading to the destruction of properties. 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.’’

He added, “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 that is fair hearing, we equally need to understand the fact that we need to 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 on the negative effect and dangers of living in flood-prone areas. On behalf of the government of Mallam Uba Sani, we are pleading to the entire state, particularly people living within flood-prone areas, to evacuate to urban centres.’’

Predicting that the rainy season would take longer than usual, increasing the risk of flooding across the state, he said the state government had established camps for those affected, providing food, non-food items and security.

He therefore assured that the government would do everything to make sure residents understand the value of their lives and the importance of cooperating with the government to prevent further disasters in the state. He also noted that “residents must also take responsibility for their lives and property.’’