The Adamawa State Government has ordered the immediate deployment of emergency relief materials to victims of a devastating flood that swept through parts of Yola South Local Government Area following more than 10 hours of torrential rainfall.
The flood, which affected communities including Shagari and Yolde Pate, claimed at least two lives, injured several residents, and destroyed homes, farms, and public infrastructure, according to local authorities.
Deputy Governor Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta led a government delegation to the affected areas on Sunday to assess the damage and sympathize with residents. She also visited the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, where many of the injured were receiving treatment.
“We woke up to a terrible flood that has claimed two lives and left many injured,” Farauta said. “The government is deeply saddened by the losses and is mobilizing all necessary support to assist the victims.”
Eyewitnesses described the incident as the worst flooding in years. Aliyu Mustapha, a local farmer and resident of Yolde Pate, said his home and farmland were completely washed away.
“My house and farm are gone,” he said. “The water came so fast, we only had time to carry the children and run. Some neighbors’ kids are still missing.”
Moved by the scenes of destruction, Farauta directed relevant agencies to provide temporary shelters, food items, clothing, and medical supplies to displaced persons. She assured victims that the government would not abandon them.
“We are not leaving you alone in this time of trouble. Help is coming,” she stated.
Medical personnel at the teaching hospital confirmed that at least two people had died, with others still undergoing treatment. Dr. Yusuf Nuhu of the Accident and Emergency Unit said most of the injured were responding well to treatment.
Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has joined state officials and community volunteers in ongoing rescue and relief operations. Ladan Ayuba, Head of Operations at NEMA in the region, said some residents were hesitant to evacuate due to fears of looting.
“We understand their fears, but safety must come first,” he said. “Our teams are doing everything possible to reach those in distress, including using canoes to access submerged areas.”
The flood has also led to reports of missing persons, including children swept away by the rising water. One grieving mother said her six-year-old daughter slipped from her hands during the chaos and had yet to be found.
“I can’t sleep or eat. I just want my baby back,” she said tearfully.
As search efforts intensify, the government is appealing for broader support. Farauta called on federal authorities, private organizations, and philanthropic individuals to assist in the recovery efforts.
“This is not just a government issue; it is a humanitarian crisis,” she said. “We must come together as Nigerians to support one another in times like these.”
She also urged religious leaders, youth associations, and traditional institutions to assist in the fair distribution of relief materials and help restore order and calm in the communities.
The Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA) is expected to provide an updated impact assessment in the coming days as cleanup and rebuilding efforts commence.
