Sir: Deadly flash floods in Niger State have vented nature’s fury showing that more than ever, there is need to check the devastating impact of climate change and especially support those who are most vulnerable.
Every year, as seasons replace seasons, Nigeria is on high alert for floods. This high alert comes both from a place of hindsight and science. It is common knowledge that some parts of Nigeria, particularly some states in Nigeria are prone to flood at specific times of the year. In recent years, deadly floods have flashed through Jigawa, Kogi, Benue and other states wreaking havoc. Last year, floods practically submerged Maiduguri, the Borno State, capital leaving casualties in their thousands. This year, it is Mokwa in Niger State that have witnessed first-hand, what floods can do. More than 200 people have been killed so far with hundreds more missing. The destruction to property and livelihoods is simply unquantifiable.
The floods highlight just how susceptible Niger State is to natural and unnatural disasters. Some months ago, a drowning incident in Niger State resulted in dozens of death after a boat capsized.
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Nature may be what it is, but it is by no means uncontrollable. A proactive government in a progressive country will put infrastructure in place. Such a government will fortify its disaster preparedness and make provisions to absorb the greatest impacts of what is coming especially given that science can often predict its coming with uncanny certainty.
Yet, every year, government is caught cold and flat-footed by predicted floods while families and livelihoods are swept away. Natural disasters in Nigeria disproportionately affect the most vulnerable Nigerians. Protecting them should be high on the list of government’s priorities. This must translate into taking measures to shield them from the most devastating impact of floods and other natural disasters.