7 Dead, Over 4,500 Households Affected As Flood Ravages Yobe Communities

Flood has wreaked havoc across Yobe State, leaving at least seven people dead and more than 4,521 households displaced as torrential rains continue to devastate vulnerable communities.

According to the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), several local government areas, including Gulani, Gujba, Tarmuwa, Jakusko, Potiskum and Gashua, have been badly affected, with homes, farmlands and public infrastructure either destroyed or submerged.

The floods have also washed away critical access roads, cutting off relief efforts to some of the hardest-hit villages.

Executive Secretary of SEMA, Dr. Mohammed Goje, described the scale of destruction as unprecedented in recent years. He confirmed that thousands of residents are now taking refuge in temporary shelters, while emergency teams distribute food items, cash assistance and dignity kits to victims.

“The impact is severe. Entire households have been displaced, water points destroyed, and farmlands submerged. Urgent interventions are required to prevent a humanitarian crisis,” Goje warned.

Figures compiled by humanitarian agencies indicate that over 50,000 people have been affected by flooding in the state since April, with at least 34 fatalities and 386 others injured.

The most recent wave of floods added to the toll, raising concerns about food shortages and outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

Victims in Potiskum and Jakusko, speaking to reporters, recounted their losses and appealed for a permanent solution. “We cannot continue to live in fear every rainy season. What we need are long-term measures, not just temporary aid,” one community leader said.

Governor Mai Mala Buni has directed emergency agencies to intensify relief distribution and assured affected families of government support. He also called on the Federal Government and international partners to scale up assistance, pledging new investments in dams, desilting and drainage projects to mitigate future flooding