Adamawa: Controversies trail N5 billion donations one year after Mokwa flood disaster 

One Year After Devastating Flood, Survivors Still Seek Reconstruction and Support

A year after a catastrophic flood swept through the Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, survivors continue to grapple with the aftermath. The May 29, 2025, disaster resulted in significant loss of life, property, and livelihoods, leaving lasting scars on the community.

While floodwaters have receded, many affected families are still struggling to put their lives back together. Critical infrastructure remains in disrepair, and the management of substantial donations and relief materials for victims has sparked ongoing public debate.

Residents of Mokwa are calling for more than sympathy; they demand tangible progress in reconstruction, revitalized means of livelihood, and clarification on the government’s promised interventions following the disaster.

Communities Count Their Losses

Areas such as Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa faced immense destruction, suffering both loss of life and property. In the town of Rabba, the collapse of a vital bridge connecting the community to Mokwa and neighboring areas has further compounded the difficulties faced by residents.

One year later, local farmers find it challenging to transport goods to market, and traders incur additional costs and time while trying to access surrounding villages. School children and patients rely on a temporary wooden bridge built through community efforts.

To commemorate the anniversary, community leaders organized a peaceful march and prayer session on May 29, 2026, urging the Niger State Government to fulfill its commitment to rebuilding the bridge. Protesters carried placards conveying messages like “Please Bago Fix Our Bridge” and “Today Marks One Year of Disaster.”

Community leader Alhaji Usman Ndagba emphasized the bridge’s importance, stating that while financial support for the temporary bridge was appreciated, only a permanent structure would reinstate normal economic and social activities.

The February Flood’s Impact

The flash flood, induced by heavy rainfall on May 29, 2025, devastated Mokwa. More than 200 lives were lost, thousands were displaced, and significant infrastructure—including homes, schools, and farmland—was destroyed. The disaster prompted widespread national sympathy and intervention from various entities, including the Niger State Government and private donors, which collectively pledged billions of naira in cash and relief materials.

Billions Raised for Victims

According to records from the Niger State Government, over N5 billion in cash donations were deposited into the Niger State Emergency Distress Account following the flood. Major contributions included N2 billion from the Federal Government, N1 billion from the Niger State Government, and various donations from individuals and organizations.

Despite these substantial pledges, the government has not revealed the total number of victims who received compensation or the overall amount disbursed, leading to demands for greater transparency.

Survivors Still Awaiting Support

For many survivors, one year has done little to alleviate their suffering. Dauda Liman, Chairman of the Mokwa Support Group Flood Local Committee, noted that many victims remain displaced and have seen minimal assistance from the government despite multiple promised verifications.

Allegations have surfaced regarding discrepancies in the final list of beneficiaries, as some claim that names submitted from the verification process were altered, potentially omitting genuine victims.

Survivor Yahuza Abdullahi recounted losing nine family members to the disaster and expressed dissatisfaction with the N500,000 he received, questioning the distribution of aid to those genuinely affected.

Calls for Accountability

Financial transparency is not only a concern for victims but also for donors. The NAMI Support Organisation has urged the Niger State Government to provide a detailed account of donations, stating that contributions made by its principal have been omitted from official listings.

Dr. Mohammed MK Kpautagi, the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has echoed similar sentiments, demanding a comprehensive account of funds raised and distributed.

Investigations Underway

The situation has also prompted legal action. Isah Abubakar, alongside other victims, has filed a petition with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate alleged mismanagement of the donations.

Housing Project Offers Hope

Amid ongoing concerns about relief distribution, there are positive developments regarding housing for displaced victims. In early June, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for a housing project aimed at replacing temporary shelters. The site, located near the Mokwa Cattle Ranch, was selected following community feedback rejecting the initial proposed location.

However, skepticism remains among residents, with some questioning if significant construction will follow the preliminary activities.

Clarification on Aid Management

In response to criticisms regarding the handling of relief funds, Dr. Ibrahim Hussaini, Public Relations Officer of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, clarified that the financial aspects of donation management fall under the Niger State Ministry of Finance, while his agency’s role was limited to beneficiary verification.

Efforts to contact the Chairman of the Mokwa Flood Relief Committee and the Niger State Commissioner for Finance regarding these issues were unsuccessful.

Looking Ahead

As the housing project progresses, many residents assert that true recovery extends beyond merely rebuilding structures. They emphasize the need to restore livelihoods, address the issues of omitted victims, and provide clear accountability for all donations received in the wake of last year’s disaster. Victims remain hopeful that promises will be fulfilled, allowing them to finally move beyond the tragedy that has profoundly affected their lives.

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