Rainstorms and flooding have wreaked havoc in Kogi State, leaving several communities and schools severely affected.

Communities in Idah, Kabba-Bunu, and Lokoja Local Government Areas of the state were the worst hit.

Affected areas include Aiyeteju, Iyah, Ben Thomas, Kajola, and Fehinti in Kabba-Bunu LGA; Sakin Noma in Lokoja LGA; and the Federal Polytechnic in Idah LGA.

Residents of these communities, including those at the polytechnic, are counting their losses after devastating rainstorms and flash floods swept through the region, leaving behind extensive destruction.

On Wednesday, Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Idah, Adetope Ademiluyi, said two successive rainstorms caused major damage to the institution’s infrastructure, disrupting academic activities.

He reported that lecture halls, laboratories, and hostels were among the buildings affected.

He said, “The sad incident has deeply impacted staff and student morale. We are earnestly soliciting support and assistance from the government, corporate organisations, and the public to help us rebuild. As the premier institution of higher learning in Kogi, we remain committed to delivering quality education.’’

Some residents of Kabba-Bunu LGA blamed the flooding on poor drainage systems, the state’s ongoing gully erosion control projects, and abandoned road construction work.

According to Samuel Moses and Ifeoma Nwasu, the combination of torrential rainfall and stalled erosion control efforts significantly worsened the flooding.

However, Project Manager at Levant Construction Ltd., Rabbah Harb, denied any responsibility, stating that the company should not be held accountable for the damage caused by the flood.

Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mouktar Atimah, described the situation as “devastating” and “very unfortunate.”

He said SEMA, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), planned to visit the affected communities and the polytechnic to assess the level of damage and coordinate a response.

He assured that Governor Ahmed Ododo’s administration was fully committed to protecting residents from the devastating effects of flooding in 2025.

(NAN)