Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Sen. Umar Abubakar Tafida, has inspected rice farmlands submerged by flooding in Bagudo Local Government Area to assess the level of damage.
Tafida, who chairs a high-powered Safety Management Committee on Flooding, set up by Governor Dr. Nasir Idris, visited Bagudo with committee members to observe the rising water levels and consider prevention measures.
The delegation visited Bahindi, Kende, and Tugga, where many hectares of rice farmlands cultivated this wet season are now underwater.
Addressing newsmen after the inspection, Tafida, on behalf of Governor Nasir Idris and the state government, expressed deep sympathy to the farmers for their losses. He pledged that the administration would provide relief to those affected.
“We are here to assess the extent of the flood damage. The governor mandated us to take action,” Tafida said. “We are aware of the rising water level of the River Niger. Water is still flowing through Lolo and Dolekaina. The governor directed us to mitigate the situation, save lives, and provide foodstuffs where necessary.”
He also noted the warning about impending water flow from Guinea, which could hit Kebbi State. Tafida stressed the importance of preparation, adding that residents might be evacuated to safer areas if the water levels continue to rise. The government has identified designated places for shelter.
The deputy governor extended his sympathy to the people of Argungu Emirate, where Fadama rice farms were completely flooded due to water release from the Goronyo dam.
Committees have been established in each local government area to monitor the situation and alert the government for immediate action.
Deputy Speaker of Kebbi State House of Assembly, Hon. Sama’ila Muhammad Bagudo, thanked the state government for its proactive response. He highlighted the loss of rice, millet, and sorghum crops, as well as a tragic incident where a vehicle fell into the river, killing all occupants.
Bagudo called for the dredging of the River Niger to minimize flooding during the rainy season, noting that sand accumulation exacerbates the issue.
Chairman of Bagudo Local Government, Hon. Muhammad Sambo Aliyu Zagga, expressed gratitude to the committee for their on-site assessment of the affected communities.
