Dr. Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has announced that recent floods have wreaked havoc in Zaria and Sabon-Gari LGAs, destroying over 200 homes.
Despite prior flood warnings, many residents failed to evacuate, resulting in extensive damage. Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu addressed the media, explaining that the state government has been proactive in its response, including desilting drainage systems and launching awareness campaigns.
He strongly urged residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately. The severe flooding, which struck on Monday, has caused significant destruction in both Sabon-Gari and Zaria LGAs.
Dr. Hayatu-Mazadu lamented the damage, noting that despite receiving flood predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) three months ago and taking preparatory measures, issues like poor drainage, refuse dumping, and obstructed waterways exacerbated the situation. These concerns were reported to the governor, leading to a statewide desilting initiative.
He also advised residents, particularly farmers, to make use of alternative lands provided by the state for agriculture and consider relocating to safer urban areas.
