A recent flood has displaced at least 1,664 people across four communities in Gada Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The disaster, caused by heavy rains on July 17, 2024, has left many residents homeless and resulted in significant property and agricultural losses.
Impact on Farmland and Livestock
The floodwaters not only destroyed numerous homes but also devastated several hectares of farmland. The flooding led to the loss of a substantial number of sheep and goats, further impacting the livelihoods of the affected residents.
Community Assessment
The extent of the damage was assessed on Saturday by officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Sokoto Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). The communities most affected by the flooding include Dantudu, Balakozo, Gidan Tudu, and Tsitse towns.
Detailed Impact by Community
- –Dan Tudu Village: 62 houses and 71 households were affected.
- – Balakozo Village (Tsitse Ward): 33 houses and 48 households were impacted.
- – Gidan Tudu Village: 38 houses and 52 households suffered damage.
- – Tsitse Town: 68 houses and 89 households were affected.
In total, the flood impacted 1,664 people across these communities.
Historical Context of Flooding in Nigeria
Nigeria has experienced several significant floods in recent years, notably in 2012, 2018, 2020, and 2022. These events have highlighted the recurring challenges of managing and mitigating flood risks in the country.
Bottom Line
The recent flooding in Sokoto State underscores the ongoing vulnerability of many Nigerian communities to extreme weather events. Effective disaster response and long-term flood management strategies are crucial to reducing the impact of such natural disasters on residents’ lives and livelihoods.