Flooding has wreaked havoc across several communities in Minna, the Niger State capital, destroying properties estimated at more than ₦100 million and displacing residents.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday after heavy rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems in parts of the city.
Communities affected include Imani in Minna South, M.I. Wushishi Housing Estate, Tunga, Maitunbi, Chanchaga and Shango.
Residents said floodwaters swept through homes and communities, damaging houses, vehicles, electrical appliances, fences and other valuables.
At M.I. Wushishi Housing Estate along the Eastern Bypass, residents reported that the flood carried debris through the area and damaged several properties, including a mosque and an Islamic school.
A former Chairman of the Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Abdullahi Idris, and a community leader confirmed the extent of the damage.
Residents attributed the recurring flooding partly to inadequate drainage infrastructure, which they said leaves several communities vulnerable during heavy rainfall.
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They also raised concerns about a dam reportedly constructed in the area, claiming it may have contributed to the worsening flood situation.
The affected residents appealed to the Niger State Government, humanitarian organisations, philanthropists and other stakeholders to urgently provide relief to displaced families.
They also called for improved drainage infrastructure and other measures to prevent further flooding, warning that additional heavy rainfall could cause more damage and endanger lives and property.
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