By Safiyat Muhammed | Lokoja, Kogi State
As heavy rains continue across Nigeria, the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has issued a critical warning to residents of flood-prone and riverine communities in Kogi State, urging them to immediately relocate to safer, elevated grounds.
The Acting Managing Director of the Commission, Alhaji Jimoh Haruna Gabi, gave the directive during the commencement of the Commission’s Early Warning Advocacy and Sensitization Campaign on Flood Mitigation held in Koton-Karfe, headquarters of Kogi Local Government Area, on Tuesday.
Represented by the Kogi State Coordinator of N-HYPPADEC, Mr. Michael Ajayi Omeiza, the acting MD warned that the rainy season could escalate into flash floods—one of the deadliest and most destructive natural disasters globally.
“Some floods develop gradually, but flash floods can occur within minutes or hours of a storm or containment failure,” he said. “They claim more lives and cause greater property damage than any other natural phenomenon.”
He urged residents to heed safety advisories, monitor public updates, clear surrounding drainage channels, and evacuate vulnerable homes to mitigate the risk of loss of life and property.
The Commission identified several worsening factors behind the recurring flooding, including rapid population growth, poor urban planning, industrialization, urbanisation, and climate change-induced extreme weather patterns.
Traditional leaders also voiced concern. His Royal Majesty, Saidu Akawu Salihu, the Ohimege-Igu of Koton-Karfe, welcomed the Commission to his palace and described the annual flood season as a time of fear for his people. He pledged full cooperation with N-HYPPADEC’s intervention strategies.
“My people are always apprehensive as the rainy season approaches,” the monarch said. “We are committed to following all safety guidelines, including relocating, clearing drainage paths, and managing waste responsibly.”
Similarly, Hon. Abdullahi Isah, Executive Chairman of Kogi Local Government, commended the Commission’s efforts, noting that the annual floods have left countless residents devastated over the years.
He expressed confidence that proactive advocacy and early preparation could save lives and prevent massive losses this year.