Tinubu Scrambles Emergency Response as Niger Floods Claim Over 150 Lives
As torrential floods ravage parts of Niger State, particularly Mokwa Local Government Area, President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate deployment of federal emergency resources, including the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre. The directive follows reports confirming over 150 fatalities and more than 3,000 families displaced, making this one of the deadliest natural disasters in recent Nigerian history.
Despite the swift announcement, questions linger about the country’s preparedness and the timeliness of the federal government’s intervention.
Grim Statistics, Slow Start?
Authorities report that at least 75 victims have already been buried, while over 100 people remain missing. Emergency responders continue to search through devastated areas amid fears that the death toll may rise. Critics argue that the scale of destruction reflects deeper systemic failures, including poor urban planning, deforestation, and the absence of effective early-warning mechanisms.
In a statement on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @officialABAT, President Tinubu expressed sorrow and pledged a “swift and compassionate” federal response. “Relief materials and temporary shelters are being deployed without delay,” he wrote.
However, citizens and civil society groups are demanding more than promises they want transparency, accountability, and evidence of lasting solutions, not just temporary aid drops.
Federal Agencies Mobilised, But Coordination Remains Crucial
Tinubu confirmed that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in coordination with Niger State authorities, has begun rescue operations. He also instructed security agencies to provide logistical and operational support.
Yet, this is not the first time Nigeria has faced flood disasters with devastating human costs. Critics argue that emergency response systems often lack the capacity for large-scale coordination, and recovery efforts tend to be marred by bureaucracy and inefficiencies.
Public Assurance or Political Optics?
The President’s statement emphasized federal commitment to ensuring “no Nigerian affected by this disaster is left behind or unheard.” While the sentiment is noble, analysts question whether the government will follow through, given Nigeria’s history of underfunded disaster relief programs and sluggish rehabilitation efforts.
Tinubu’s appeal to national unity and shared humanity comes at a time when confidence in public institutions is already shaky. His promise to “prioritise lives, restore dignity, and accelerate recovery” will be measured not by press releases but by results on the ground.
Condolences Amid Crisis
The President extended his condolences to grieving families and called on Nigerians to remember the victims in their thoughts and prayers. “In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity,” he said.
But for residents of Mokwa and other flood-hit communities, resilience is not enough. They need concrete action, sustainable infrastructure, and a long-term flood prevention strategy to prevent future disasters from turning deadly.
Reference
Tinubu Scrambles Emergency Response as Niger Floods Claim Over 150 Lives