The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has revealed that victims of the devastating flood in Mokwa communities are refusing to relocate to designated Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps set up for their safety and welfare.

According to Ibrahim Hussaini, Acting Director-General of NSEMA, the flood victims remain traumatized and confused following the disaster that has significantly disrupted their lives and livelihoods.

Community Ties Preventing Relocation

Speaking on Channels Television on Tuesday, Hussaini described the situation as "massive" and explained that the close-knit nature of the affected communities is a major factor in their reluctance to move to relief camps.

"There has been confusion everywhere. People lost their lives, their properties, and their ways of livelihood. That is what we call a disaster. Over 3,000 people were affected. Many are disturbed psychologically. This has distorted their normal way of living," Hussaini stated.

He further explained that residents prefer staying with neighbors rather than moving to relief camps due to concerns about congestion and discomfort. "Those that are easily affected were having resistance of going to the relief camps because the community is like a single community. They are all related to each other. But we are gradually talking to them, and they are beginning to accept our position that they should be in the camps," he added.

Relief Efforts Underway

Despite the challenges, humanitarian support is flowing into the affected areas from various organizations. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and UNICEF are among those providing assistance, with tents being erected in designated areas for victims.

"The relief assistance has continued to come from different angles. The Niger State Government has moved all its activities into Mokwa," Hussaini noted.

He expressed gratitude to the state governor for mobilizing stakeholders who are providing relief interventions and suggestions to address the crisis.

The federal government has also responded to the disaster, with President Tinubu reportedly approving N2 billion for the resettlement of victims and rebuilding of flood-hit homes in Mokwa.

As recovery efforts continue, NSEMA officials remain committed to convincing affected residents about the importance of relocating to safer areas while the long-term rehabilitation of their communities is addressed.