From HASSAN JIRGI Damaturu
Thousands of people living in Old Nguru, Hausari, Zangon Kanwa, Shuwari and Nayi Nawa communities in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State have been rendered homeless, following a devastating flood that swept away their houses.
The incident, which took place recently, has led to severe hunger among the displaced people, while many children are battling malaria and other related illnesses, a source said.According to Isa Garba, one of the victims with two wives and eight children, “Nguru is the hometown of the current chairman, Mohammed Mairami.
“We are suffering seriously. No food to eat and there is no place for us to stay. All our houses, foodstuffs, livestock and other belongings have been destroyed by flood.”
Other residents, including Lawan Mansur and Danfulani Abba said no fewer than 200 houses were destroyed, rendering some of the inhabitants homeless.
They pleaded for urgent assistance from government and non-governmental organisations.“Our children are dying of hunger, malaria and other illnesses associated with the disaster. It is very sympathetic,” they cried.
In a sympathy visit to the area, Mairami described the situation as disastrous and pathetic.He said concerted efforts are being made to provide assistance to the victims.
Mailari said all the affected communities found it very difficult to cope with the situation, adding that officials of the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, had been contacted and have started reaching out to the victims.
“Yes, there was severe flooding in Hausari ward in Nguru Local Government Area,” the council boss said.
He added that the torrential rain, which has been persistent in the last few days, also destroyed farmlands and foodstuffs
“From the information at my disposal, about 200 households were affected in each of the communities. Presently, officials of SEMA have been contacted and I believe they have started proper response to the plight of the victims.
He called on government and other spirited individuals to respond immediately and help the victims who are mostly peasants and in dire need of urgent intervention.
When contacted on phone, the Executive Secretary of SEMA, Dr Mohammed Goje did not pick calls at press time.
