Severe flooding has devastated parts of Kabba, Kogi State, and several communities across the three senatorial districts in Ondo State, following three consecutive days of torrential rainfall, submerging over 500 houses and displacing hundreds of residents.
Kogi State:
In Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, floodwaters overran communities, especially Idde-Iyah in Kabba metropolis, leaving a trail of destruction.
- Over 500 households were affected, with places of worship and more than 1,500 domestic animals lost, according to community leader Lawal Abejide.
- Chief Obahunlewo, the Obaladugbo of Ekiri Quarters, reportedly lost his home and personal belongings while undergoing medical treatment.
- The Source of Life Mountain of Redemption Church (Abosede) and multiple mosques were swept away by the raging waters.
Ondo State:
In Ondo, floodwaters wreaked havoc in Owo, Ilaje, and Okitipupa Local Government Areas, also affecting communities in Ese-Odo.
- Seven bridges collapsed, isolating residents from their farms, markets, and workplaces.
- Affected towns include Ayeka, Ikoya, Igbodigo, Ilutuntun, Igbekebo, Kiribo, Mahin, and others.
- Residents attributed the flooding to erosion and blocked canals, especially around Igodan and the OAUSTECH area, where overflow from streams exacerbated the impact.
- Damaged properties include electronics, furniture, and kitchenware, while some homes sustained structural damage to walls and foundations.
Call for Urgent Intervention:
Local leaders and residents are urging state and federal governments, as well as emergency response agencies, to:
- Provide relief materials and temporary shelter for displaced families.
- Dredge and clear blocked canals to prevent further flooding.
- Reconstruct collapsed bridges and damaged infrastructure.
- Establish a sustainable flood management plan, particularly in flood-prone regions.
The widespread destruction highlights the urgent need for climate-resilient infrastructure and improved disaster preparedness to safeguard vulnerable communities.
