The Kebbi State Government has issued an urgent warning to residents living in lowland and waterway areas to relocate immediately as part of emergency measures to mitigate potential flooding in the state.

This directive comes amid nationwide preparations as several states brace for heavy rainfall and possible flood disasters, following federal alerts that over 1,200 communities across Nigeria are at high risk of flooding.

Bello Rilisco, Kebbi's disaster management chief, confirmed the state's preparedness, stating that comprehensive warnings had been issued to residents in flood-prone zones.

"We've received federal alerts and activated our defence mechanism to protect lives and property. Households in lowlands and those obstructing drainage flow have been warned," he said.

Residents Face Difficult Choices

The situation highlights the socioeconomic challenges facing many residents in vulnerable areas. In Birnin Kebbi, a resident identified as Hajia Mariya Saidu expressed the dilemma faced by many: "Poverty forced us to live here. We know the risk but can't afford safer places."

This emergency response follows recent flood-related disasters in neighboring Niger State, where reports indicate casualties and significant property damage from similar flooding incidents.

The warning is particularly significant given recent concerns about infrastructure in the state. A report by MonITNG highlighted that a N7.23 billion drainage project in Kebbi collapsed just months after completion, potentially exacerbating flood risks in affected areas.

Authorities have not specified what assistance will be provided to displaced residents who may lack resources to relocate to safer areas, raising humanitarian concerns as the rainy season intensifies.

The Kebbi State Government continues to monitor the situation closely as meteorological forecasts predict continued heavy rainfall across Nigeria's northern states in the coming weeks.