A devastating flood has swept through several communities in Adamawa State, leaving scores of residents missing and over 600 homes destroyed following a torrential rainfall that lasted more than six hours on Sunday.
The affected areas Shagari Low Cost, Sabon Pegi, Modire, and Yolde Pate in Yola South Local Government Area were left reeling after the downpour overwhelmed drainage systems and submerged entire neighbourhoods.
Victims who spoke with reporters recounted harrowing experiences, with many narrowly escaping the rising waters.
“Many lives were lost, especially children,” said Abubakar Adamu, a resident of Sabon Pegi, fighting back tears. “We’re still trying to confirm the exact number of casualties.”
Although official figures have yet to be released, eyewitness accounts suggest several fatalities, with children feared to be among the worst affected.
John Audu, another victim, described how the floodwaters rushed into his home in the middle of the night. “The water came so fast, we couldn’t take anything. My children were asleep when it started entering their room,” he said.
In response to the disaster, the Adamawa State Police Command and the 23rd Armoured Brigade, Yola, have launched coordinated rescue efforts.
According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, Suleiman Nguroje, trained marine police officers have been deployed to assist trapped residents and conduct search-and-rescue operations.
Commissioner of Police Morris Dankwambo also ordered officers from the marine unit to immediately relocate to the affected communities to aid in emergency efforts.
Sunday’s flooding comes despite recent warnings issued by the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA). Just last week, the agency’s Executive Secretary, Celine Laori, had advised residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground, citing seasonal forecasts predicting heavy rains.
In the wake of the disaster, affected residents are calling for immediate intervention from both ADSEMA and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
They are urging authorities to provide food supplies, temporary shelters, and medical aid for displaced families.
As rescue operations continue, the state government is yet to issue an official statement on the extent of the damage or the number of casualties.