Devastating floods have wreaked havoc across communities in Kogi and Ondo states, submerging more than 500 houses and displacing hundreds of residents, with losses running into millions of naira.
In Kogi State, the downpour persisted for three consecutive days, leading to the overflow of streams and brooks and triggering massive flooding in Kabba, the administrative hub of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
The flooding displaced numerous families, rendered many homeless, and resulted in the destruction of over 500 homes.
The Idde-Iyah community within the Kabba metropolis bore the brunt of the disaster.
The relentless rainfall, which began on Wednesday night, overwhelmed the area. A notable casualty of the flooding is Chief Obahunlewo, the Obaladugbo of Ekiri Quarter, whose home and possessions were swept away.
Lawal Abejide, a resident and community leader in Kabba/Bunu, highlighted the scale of the destruction. He stated, “The flood affected over 500 households, places of worship, and claimed the lives of more than 1,500 domestic animals.
Chief Obahunlewo, the Obaladugbo of Ekiri Quarters in Idde-Iyah, a retired police officer currently undergoing medical treatment, was left in tears as his home and belongings were destroyed by the flood.
The Source of Life Mountain of Redemption Church (Abosede) and all the mosques in the areas were washed off by the flood too.”
Meanwhile, in Ondo State, a similar three-day deluge triggered massive flooding across the three senatorial districts, causing untold hardship and displacing hundreds.
The downpour resulted in the collapse of at least seven bridges, isolating several communities and hindering access to farms, marketplaces, and workplaces.
Communities in Owo, Ilaje, and Okitipupa Local Government Areas were among the worst-hit. In Ilaje, areas such as Igbokoda, the council headquarters, alongside Ikuomola, Ilare, Omonira, Aboto, Ugbo, and Mahin were submerged.
In Ese-Odo, residents of Igbotu, Ilu-Agbo, Kiribo, Igbekebo, Inikorogha, and Sabomi were also affected.
A resident who spoke to newsmen narrated their ordeal, “The flooding was caused by erosion flowing down from Igodan, coupled with the fact that the Igodan stream along Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, OAUSTECH road overflowed its banks during the torrential downpour.
“It affected about 10 buildings. But we quickly ran out with our wives and children to seek refuge in safer neighbouring houses.
“Apart from damaging the walls and foundations of some buildings, we lost valuables such as electronics, clothing, beddings, chairs, rugs, and kitchen utensils to the flood.
“The canal was dredged earlier this year, but it has been blocked by debris, which I believe led to the flooding.”
As residents in both states come to terms with the destruction, calls are growing for urgent government intervention to restore access, provide relief, and put in place long-term flood mitigation strategies.
