Flood Devastates Kwara Community, Displaces Residents, Destroys Properties Worth Millions of Naira 

By Mutiat Olarewaju

Residents of Bode Saadu, the administrative hub of Moro Local Government Area in Kwara State, were thrown into chaos after a severe flood hit the area on Thursday morning. The flood, triggered by heavy rains that fell throughout Wednesday night, left many homes submerged and residents trapped in their houses.

The rising floodwaters completely covered the bridge connecting Bode Saadu to Jebba, cutting off access and exacerbating the situation. The torrential downpour caused significant damage to properties, with losses estimated in the millions of naira. Many families have been displaced and forced to seek refuge in safer areas as they grapple with the destruction of their homes and livelihoods.

However, SaharaReporters reports that efforts to reach the Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, for comments on the government’s response, proved unsuccessful. Calls and messages sent to him went unanswered, leaving residents in the dark about any potential relief efforts.

Earlier this week, the Kwara State Government had warned residents about the risks of flooding, urging them to take precautions. Commissioner for Communication Bola Olukoju emphasized the seriousness of the alerts in a statement released on Tuesday. She noted that the government, alongside traditional institutions, had been working on public awareness campaigns to help reduce the impact of flooding in vulnerable areas.

“More of such programmes are ongoing, including through radio stations and community leaders. The government has desilted many drainages and water passages within the metropolis while discouraging actions that may exacerbate the threats of climate change and rising water levels,” Olukoju said in her statement.

Olukoju also highlighted the proactive measures being taken in riverine communities, specifically mentioning Patigi and Edu, where local leaders have been engaging residents in flood-prone areas. “Our royal fathers have continued to engage with residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to designated safe zones. We appeal to our people to follow this important advisory as the government supports them in various ways,” she added.

As residents of Bode Saadu begin to assess the full extent of the damage, many are left waiting for assistance and action from the government. The community’s call for support remains urgent as the floodwaters slowly recede, revealing the havoc left in their wake.