Residents of Mashi Local Government Area in Katsina State have expressed concern over a potential flood disaster following a prolonged downpour that hit the area on Sunday.
The rainfall, which lasted several hours on May 31, submerged major drainage channels and low-lying areas, while severe erosion was reported in parts of the town.
Some residents who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday said the situation had heightened fears of flooding, particularly in communities located near waterways.
Umar Abubakar, a resident of Shema Quarters Housing Estate, said the rising water levels during the rainfall posed a significant threat to homes and residents.
“We fear that if the rain continues at this rate, many households may be displaced by flood,” he said.
Residents of Unguwar Tsoma also decried recurring flooding in the area, noting that the problem had persisted for years and continued to endanger lives and property every rainy season.
Another resident, Anas Rabiu, appealed to Gov. Dikko Radda to urgently intervene by directing the construction of drainage channels in vulnerable communities.
He listed Unguwar Tsoma Takalafiya, Unguwar Kashe Naira, Unguwar Sabon Layi, and Unguwar Gabas as the areas most at risk.
“We are appealing to the governor to come to our aid before the situation worsens.
“Proper drainage systems are needed to protect lives and property,” he said.
Also speaking, a resident, Abba Haruna urged both the state and local governments to clear blocked drainages and construct additional water channels to ensure the free flow of floodwater.
“We are calling on the authorities to intervene before the situation gets out of hand,” he said.
Hauwa’u Bishir, a resident of Unguwar Tsoma Takalafiya, said the rainfall had already caused significant erosion in parts of the community.
She disclosed that a section of a road was washed away by erosion triggered by the downpour, while floodwater continued to encroach on land close to residential buildings.
According to her, failure to address the situation promptly could result in further damage to infrastructure and homes as the rainy season intensifies.
The residents, therefore, called on the relevant authorities to take proactive measures to avert a potential flood disaster and safeguard lives and property in the affected communities.
NAN
