A devastating flood has wreaked havoc in Gombe State, destroying 2,517 homes and shops across 33 communities. The Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) reported the disaster, which struck following heavy rainfall between August 12 and August 22.
Ibrahim Nalado, SEMA’s Deputy Director of Relief and Rehabilitation, confirmed the widespread damage during an interview on Saturday in Gombe.
He stated, “The flood severely impacted communities in Dukku, Funakaye, and Billiri Local Government Areas (LGAs). In Dukku LGA, 10 communities were affected; in Funakaye, 20 communities; and in Billiri, three communities.”
The flood primarily destroyed houses, though a few farmlands also suffered damage. Fortunately, no lives were lost, but two children in Dukku sustained injuries. Additionally, seven animals were swept away by the floodwaters.
The most significant agricultural impact occurred in the Hina community in Yamaltu/Deba LGA, where about 1,000 hectares of farmland were submerged. The flooded fields were filled with rice, maize, sorghum, and millet, all of which were nearing harvest time.
Nalado described the damage as “huge and devastating,” emphasizing the vast area affected.
Nalado explained, “Farmers were getting ready to harvest their crops. They are understandably worried, but they have accepted it as a natural phenomenon.”
SEMA is currently collecting data on the number of farmers impacted by the flood in Hina. Nalado assured the public that his agency had assessed the damage and is compiling reports to be forwarded to the state government and relevant agencies.
Addressing the extent of the damage, Nalado emphasized that both the state and federal governments would need to collaborate to provide adequate support. He called on the North East Development Commission and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to assist Gombe State in managing the disaster’s aftermath.
In his appeal to those affected, Nalado urged patience, promising that help would come.
“Government and other agencies will come to their aid,” he reassured the victims.