Flood Renders Many Homeless In Yobe

Many people in Jajimaji town of Karasuwa Local Government Area of Yobe State, northeast Nigeria, are still counting their losses after the town was hit by a flood.

A downpour that started in the early hours of Saturday and lasted for hours ensured that residents of the town faced a new reality when it stopped.

Some homes, fences and structures were washed away and properties destroyed by the flood.

Karasuwa LGA Chairman, Mr Ubaliyo Gambo, who confirmed the disaster told Channels Television that the victims have taken refuge in safe parts of the community with some of them being accommodated at the primary school within the town.

He added that a decision has been taken to relocate those rendered homeless by the flood to a new layout within the Jajimaji area.

The plan is to ensure that people no longer reside in flood-prone areas.

Meanwhile, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has carried out an assessment visit to the flood area with a view to knowing the level of damage for immediate response.

The Permanent Secretary of SEMA, Mr Idi Jidawa, said the agency will intervene urgently with food and required materials that will alleviate the sufferings of the affected persons.

While suggesting the relocation of residents or the construction of an effective drainage system as options for stopping the perennial flood in the area, Mr Jidawa thanked the Karasuwa Council for its timely response to the flood and for notifying SEMA.