The Kaduna State Government has appealed to all residents living in flood-prone areas to evacuate their houses immediately.

This directive followed the devastating flood that swept houses and properties in Sabon-Gari, Zaria, and parts of Kaduna Communities on Monday.

The Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Usman Hayatu-Mazadu, told journalists on Wednesday, that the state government had taken measures to mitigate the impact of the flood, including desilting drainages and conducting sensitisation campaigns.

Mazadu noted that despite predictions and warnings, some residents refused to relocate, leading to the destruction of over 200 houses in Zaria and Sabon-Gari LGs.

However, he stressed that residents’ cooperation was crucial in ensuring their safety.

Besides, he urged residents, particularly farmers, to take advantage of alternative land provided by the state government for farming and to relocate to urban centers.

He said, “I am here today to address the recent devastating flood that affected Sabon-Gari and Zaria Local Government Areas on Monday. Despite our efforts to mitigate the impact, the flood has caused significant damage, with over 200 houses destroyed.

“As you may recall, we received predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) three months ago, and we took proactive measures to prepare for the flood.

“Our assessment identified three key issues: inadequate drainages, dumping of refuse, and structures erected within waterways. We presented our findings to the governor, who directed the stakeholders to embark on a statewide desilting of old drainages.

“I am pleased to report that this exercise has been completed, which helped minimize the impact of the flood in other predicted areas.However, despite our efforts, some residents refused to evacuate, leading to the destruction of properties.”

Mazadu said, “We have already for weeks, had interactions with some radio stations over 15 times, but why are we having these challenges? The problem is that we are yet to understand the essence and purpose of our lives.

He warned that the rainy season would be longer than usual, increasing the risk of flooding across the state.

According to him, the state government has set up camps for those affected, providing food, non-food items, and security.

The SEMA boss emphasised that the government was committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens, but residents must also take responsibility for their lives and properties.