Torrential rainfall late Wednesday night triggered severe flooding in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. Over 50 houses were reportedly destroyed, while farmlands and market stalls were submerged, displacing dozens of residents and crippling local economic activity.
Local officials described the aftermath as devastating. The Special Adviser to the Tureta LGA Chairman, Malam Kabiru Tureta, confirmed the extent of the damage, expressing concern over the hardship now facing affected families.
“This situation is deeply troubling,” Malam Kabiru said. “Our people have lost homes, crops, and sources of income. We are awaiting a full assessment to guide the necessary emergency response.”
Residents woke up to find parts of their community completely inundated, with floodwaters sweeping away stored food items, personal belongings, and disrupting access to key infrastructure. Many families are now sheltering with relatives or in temporary structures while awaiting intervention.
Community leaders are calling on the Sokoto State Government and relevant disaster response agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), to provide urgent support.
One resident, Musa Garba, whose home and rice farm were destroyed, pleaded for swift assistance. “We have nowhere to go, and our farms are gone. Government should please help us rebuild and recover,” he said.
Local authorities have begun preliminary evaluations to assess the level of destruction. Relief efforts, according to officials, will follow once a detailed report is compiled. The incident adds to growing concerns over the increasing frequency of flooding in Nigeria’s northern states, often linked to climate change and inadequate drainage infrastructure.
As the rainy season progresses, residents in flood-prone areas are being urged to stay alert and take necessary precautions.
