The Niger State Government has announced the recovery of seven additional bodies from the recent devastating flood in Mokwa area, raising the death toll to 160 victims.

In a statement issued in Minna on Tuesday, the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, provided details of the recovery operations. Four bodies were recovered on Monday, one in the early hours of Tuesday, and two more later the same day as search efforts continued.

"This development brings the total number of confirmed fatalities from the flood to 160," the statement confirmed. All seven recovered bodies have since been buried in accordance with local customs.

Government Appeals for Calm

The Niger State Government has urged residents to remain calm during this period of collective mourning. Officials also cautioned against spreading misleading information that could cause additional distress, panic, or unnecessary commotion within affected communities.

"We plead with residents to be prayerful and stay calm in this period of collective grief," the statement read, emphasizing the importance of verified information during the crisis.

Ongoing Relief Efforts

State authorities have pledged to continue providing necessary support to affected families while intensifying relief and rescue operations. The government expressed its commitment to standing with the victims as the state continues to mourn the lives lost in this tragedy.

The Mokwa flood has drawn national attention, with various stakeholders expressing concern about its impact on local communities and potential disruptions to fuel supply in northern Nigeria, including Abuja, as the area serves as a crucial transportation route.

BenriNews will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as rescue and recovery efforts progress in the affected areas.