Nigeria’s Senate has urged the federal government to launch a thorough investigation into the recent catastrophic flood in Mokwa, Niger State, and to take broader action against recurring flood disasters nationwide.
The resolution came during plenary on Tuesday, following a motion introduced by Senator Peter Jiya and co-sponsored by more than 20 senators. The lawmakers stressed the need for a comprehensive national flood response strategy, including durable infrastructure and early-warning systems to prevent similar future calamities.
The Senate held a minute of silence for the victims of the Mokwa disaster, which occurred after intense rainfall on 29 and 30 May and led to widespread devastation. According to Senator Jiya, over 700 people were reported dead, including pupils from four Islamic schools. Only about 300 bodies have been recovered to date.
Infrastructural damage was also significant, with railway lines destroyed, bridges uprooted, and roads rendered impassable. Estimated losses exceed ₦10 billion, Jiya said.
Despite prior warnings from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), Jiya criticised the lack of effective preparedness from government ministries and agencies. He revealed that he had previously appealed to the Ecological Fund Office to address flooding risks in Mokwa and neighbouring areas, but no action was taken.
The Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, along with representatives from NEMA and other disaster agencies, has since visited the affected region. However, senators noted that the relief efforts so far have been inadequate given the scale of destruction and human loss.
Senator Victor Umeh added that the disaster was predictable and preventable, citing ignored early warnings. He called for urgent planning as the peak of the rainy season approaches in July.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who led the day’s proceedings, offered condolences to the victims and underscored the urgency of implementing preventive and responsive measures across Nigeria.
