At least 21 people have been confirmed dead and over 50 residential houses washed away following a devastating flood that ravaged two communities in Niger State in the early hours of Thursday.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the disaster, which struck Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa communities in Mokwa town, Mokwa Local Government Area, after a heavy downpour that lasted several hours.

According to NSEMA Director General, Abdullahi Baba Arah, the surging flood waters submerged and washed away over 50 residential houses with their occupants. "Twenty-one corpses have so far been recovered of those who sadly lost their lives in the incident while over 10 persons are still missing," he stated.

Rescue operations are currently ongoing, with NSEMA collaborating with Mokwa LG Authority, local divers, and volunteers to find survivors and recover bodies. Three persons, including a woman and her two children, have been rescued and are receiving treatment for wounds and shock at the Mokwa General Hospital.

HYPPADEC Responds to Disaster

The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has expressed shock at the development. In a statement by Nura Tanko Wakili, Head of Press and Public Affairs, the Commission noted that preliminary reports indicate the flood swept away hundreds of properties and left several persons, including children, unaccounted for.

"The incident has left the entire community devastated and in distress. As we assess the situation and prepare for an appropriate response, we urge residents to remain vigilant and comply with safety directives from relevant emergency and disaster management agencies to prevent further loss," the statement read.

N-HYPPADEC has appealed to relevant stakeholders to act swiftly in providing relief and support to cushion the impact of the disaster on the affected communities.

This disaster comes as Nigeria enters its annual rainy season, which typically brings flooding to various parts of the country. Authorities have previously warned of potential flooding in riverine communities and urged residents in flood-prone areas to take precautionary measures.

The search and rescue operation continues as emergency responders work to locate the remaining missing persons.