This topic quickly take me to Niger state in Nigeria about the flooding in mokwa. It was a deep flood hit that results to destruction of life and property.
How does it happen
It started rained heavily through the night of May 28–29, and by morning, disaster had struck. I was in bida then, the results of the cause the dam collapsed, drainage systems overflowed, and homes were swallowed by water. Reports confirmed over 500 deaths, with hundreds still missing. More than 4,000 homes were destroyed, and entire communities were left displaced and helpless. It was a total natural disasters.
When I first heard about it, my breathing became faster and. I couldn’t sleep that night. I kept thinking about people like you and me mothers, children, workers losing everything in just a one night. Homes turned to mud, dreams washed away. I felt powerless and distress but couldn’t ignore the urge to speak up and reflect.
Why Did This Happen?
The truth is, some say this disaster happen because of rain but to me it not only the rain. A few things made it very worse:
Climate change has made rainfall stronger and less predictable.
The dam wasn’t properly maintained.
Blocked drains and poor waste management allowed water to build up faster and uncontrollable
No warning systems were in place to alert people in time due to poor management.
This wasn’t just a natural disaster it was a sign of failed planning, neglect, non challant, poor development and lack of awareness.
How Can We Prevent This?
It’s easy to feel helpless, but there are real steps we can take:
Build and maintain proper drainage systems.
Strengthen dams and check them regularly.
Clean our environment and avoid blockage gutters or rivers with waste.
Early warning systems in flood probable areas.
Educate people about emergency plans and safe zones to stay.
Plant trees and wetlands they help absorb water naturally.
The Mokwa flood is more than just news it’s a painful reminder of ignorance act. But we don’t have to stay that way. If government won’t act, we as individuals and communities must educate, organize, and prepare.
