By Hosea Parah, Abuja

A catastrophic flood has struck Kigo Extension in Kaduna North, Nigeria, leaving residents in a state of despair as homes and properties are submerged. This annual disaster not only displaces families but also introduces dangerous wildlife and harmful microorganisms, heightening the risk of cholera and other diseases.

The flooding, which began on Friday, September 21, 2024, has rendered life increasingly difficult for locals over the past two days.

Resident Mr. Bankole Sunday shared his experience, stating, “The flood has overtaken the last two roads of our extension. We urgently appeal to the Kaduna State Government for assistance, as our community is in distress.”

Another local, Mr. Haruna Samaila, expressed his concerns, saying, “The situation worsened overnight. Our compounds and roads are inundated with dirty water filled with dangerous animals and microorganisms. We urgently need the government to take action.”

The Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) has issued warnings to residents in seven local government areas, particularly those living in flood-prone regions, urging them to evacuate to safer locations. Unfortunately, Kigo Extension is among the areas severely affected.

Similar flooding incidents have also been reported in other Nigerian states, including Adamawa and Borno. In Adamawa, a breach at the Kiri Dam has led to significant flooding, impacting over 12,000 people and destroying nearly 300 buildings.

The floods have wreaked havoc on homes, disrupting access to essential services such as hospitals, schools, and markets. The dire situation calls for immediate intervention for the affected residents.

The impacted areas include Kigo Extension, Kabala Constain, Ungwan Rimi, Tudun Wada, and Nassarawa. Residents are pleading for the Kaduna State government to tackle the flooding crisis to prevent a potential outbreak of cholera and other illnesses.

In light of these events, it is vital for the Kaduna State Government to reinstate monthly environmental sanitation efforts and conduct regular inspections to maintain cleanliness and reduce disease risks.

Immediate action is crucial to provide relief to affected residents. The state has faced flooding challenges previously, with the 2022 floods impacting 57 sites across 14 local government areas. Proactive measures are essential to mitigate future disasters.

Support from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and humanitarian organizations is urgently needed for the affected communities. The government should also explore long-term solutions, such as enhancing drainage systems and relocating residents from vulnerable areas.

In the meantime, residents are advised to take precautions to safeguard themselves and their belongings. The ongoing situation is severe, and swift action is necessary to alleviate the flood’s effects.

The Kaduna State government must prioritize the safety and welfare of its citizens. The flood has inflicted significant hardship on the residents of Kigo Extension and surrounding areas, making a prompt governmental response essential to ease their suffering.

The residents of Kigo Extension and the neighboring communities await a swift and effective response from the government. Will the Kaduna State government act decisively to address this pressing crisis? Only time will tell.