Former Anambra state Governor and Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 Presidential election in Nigeria, Peter Obi has warned that the country needs to strengthen its preparedness to manage natural disasters.
Peter Obi gave this warning in a post made on his X handle where he was reacting to the flooding incident in Niger state.
He said “I received with deep sadness the tragic news of the devastating flooding in the Mokwa Community of Niger State, which has claimed over 100 lives and submerged more than 3,000 homes. This is a heartbreaking and deeply distressing development for our nation.
“The scale of destruction is unimaginable – entire families have been displaced, livelihoods destroyed, and whole communities thrown into mourning.
“My heart goes out, with deep compassion, to all the victims, their families, and the entire Mokwa community. At a time like this, we are reminded of the importance of empathy, solidarity, and swift action to support one another through grief and loss.
“I commend the Niger State Government for and the tireless efforts of emergency workers engaged in rescue and relief operations.
“At the same time, I urge the Federal Government, and other humanitarian organisations, to intensify their interventions by ensuring the timely provision of essential relief – shelter, food, clean water, and medical care – to all those affected.
“This tragic disaster is yet another urgent call for Nigeria to reassess and significantly strengthen our disaster preparedness systems. We must invest in sustainable and proactive solutions that protect lives and property, particularly in vulnerable riverine communities, as the rainy season continues.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the government and people of Niger State, and to every family that has lost a loved one. May God Almighty console them, forgive the sins of the departed, and grant them eternal rest.”
