The Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) has issued an urgent evacuation notice for residents in flood-prone areas due to ongoing heavy rainfall and increasing water levels along riverbanks.
This alert follows a severe flood on Monday that devastated approximately 200 homes in Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas.
In a statement to journalists, KADSEMA’s Executive Secretary, Usman Mazadu, expressed regret that the flooding might have been prevented had residents heeded prior warnings from both the agency and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
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These warnings had advised those in vulnerable areas to relocate to safer locations until the rainy season subsides.
Several months ago, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency had forecasted that at least seven local government areas in Kaduna State could face flooding due to intensified rainfall.
They also advised residents in flood-prone areas and farmers to move to safer locations or relocate their crops to higher grounds.
Despite these warnings, some residents did not evacuate, resulting in significant damage.
In response to the flooding, Usman Mazadu stated that the state government is implementing measures to alleviate the impact, including cleaning drainages and launching public awareness campaigns.
Mazadu encouraged residents, especially farmers, to use alternative farmland provided by the government and move to safer areas. He also identified inadequate drainage, refuse dumping, and structures built within waterways as major contributors to flooding.
Given the forecast of a prolonged rainy season and recent flood events in Sabon-Gari and Zaria, KADSEMA emphasized the need for proactive measures.
