Lokoja—Kogi State is facing a severe flood emergency as rising waters from the Niger and Benue rivers have completely submerged Ibaji Local Government Area. Authorities have issued urgent warnings to communities along the riverbanks to relocate to safer grounds immediately.
Executive Secretary of Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mouktar Atima, disclosed that the state’s current situation is critical due to anticipated excessive water inflows from dams nationwide. He emphasized that flooding would worsen starting Tuesday night, increasing the risk to riverbank communities.
“From charts of experts and managers of various dams, excessive water will begin to pour into the Rivers Niger and Benue from Tuesday night, causing an overflow of the river bank,” Atima stated.
According to SEMA, at least 258 communities across eight local government areas are flood-prone. To mitigate the impact, 42 internally displaced persons (IDP) camps have been constructed, and an emergency operations center has been activated to coordinate relief efforts.
“At present, five communities in Ibaji Local Government Area—Ota, Ofogbo, Itima, and Owara—have been worst hit,” Atima said. He warned that the next 72 hours would be particularly challenging, urging residents to act swiftly to ensure their safety.
The SEMA chief also highlighted the critical role of the state Ministry of Health in disaster management. He commended Health Commissioner Dr. Adams Abdullazeez for his proactive collaboration, noting that support from the ministry contributed to zero casualties during last year’s floods.
In response, Dr. Abdullazeez reassured residents that the Ministry of Health is prepared not only to provide healthcare services but also broader human services in times of disaster. He revealed that fumigation of all 42 IDP camps has already begun to prevent health hazards.
“The ministry has fully mobilized its personnel and materials to attend to any flood victims,” Abdullazeez added, emphasizing readiness to mitigate the potential impact of the floods.
Authorities are urging all residents in identified flood-prone areas to relocate immediately. Emergency teams are on standby to assist with evacuation, provide shelter, and deliver essential medical services.
SEMA continues to monitor river levels closely and is coordinating with other relevant agencies to ensure a timely response to any escalation of the disaster. Residents are advised to follow official updates and avoid returning to affected areas until the water recedes.
The state government reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging community leaders to cooperate fully with emergency services during this critical period.
The situation in Kogi State underscores the increasing threat of seasonal flooding and the importance of preparedness, rapid response, and inter-agency collaboration in safeguarding vulnerable populations.
