Residents of Rafin Atiku Ward in Birnin Kebbi received a visit from the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, following recent flooding that destroyed several homes and properties.
During the inspection on Tuesday, Senator Tafida assessed the extent of the destruction, which residents attributed to torrential rainfall and blocked drainage channels.
The flood reportedly led to the collapse of buildings and the loss of food items, clothing, and household belongings in many homes.
Accompanying the Deputy Governor on the visit were top government officials, including the Chairman of the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, Bello Yakubu Rilisco; Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Musa Mohammad Tungulawa; and Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Comrade Nura Bala Fingilla.
The flooding was linked to a major drainage in the ward being clogged with refuse, causing the gutters to overflow during the downpour.
Speaking to journalists, one of the affected residents, Malam Idris Abdulrahman, described the situation as devastating. “The water entered our house at night. We lost bags of grains, mattresses, and even some parts of the wall collapsed. This has never happened like this before,” he said.
In response, Senator Tafida directed the Ministry of Environment to work closely with relevant agencies to clear the blocked drainage channels and prevent future occurrences.
He also instructed SEMA to assess the needs of affected residents and provide the necessary support to help them recover.
Flood disaster: Kebbi deputy gov visits affected homes in Rafin Atiku