Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating flood that recently struck Mokwa in Niger State, resulting in over 100 fatalities and displacing thousands. In a heartfelt statement released on Saturday, Obi extended his condolences to the affected families and called for urgent collective action to support victims while reassessing Nigeria’s readiness for natural disasters.
The flood submerged more than 3,000 homes, leaving an entire community in mourning. In his statement shared via his official X handle, Obi described the situation as “tragic and deeply distressing,” emphasizing the widespread human suffering and destruction it has caused. “Many families have lost their homes, jobs, and loved ones,” Obi said. “I feel deeply for all the victims, their families, and the people of Mokwa.” He also thanked the Niger State Government and emergency teams for their efforts in handling the crisis.
However, he stressed that more action is needed at the federal and national levels to mitigate future disasters. He urged the Federal Government and humanitarian organizations to enhance interventions and ensure that affected residents receive timely assistance, including shelter, food, clean water, and medical support. The former governor of Anambra State also took this opportunity to underscore the ongoing inadequacy of Nigeria’s disaster response infrastructure.
He called for sustainable, proactive, and well-funded systems to protect lives and property, particularly in flood-prone areas during the rainy season. “This tragic disaster serves as yet another urgent reminder for Nigeria to reassess and significantly strengthen our disaster preparedness systems,” Obi said. “We must invest in strategies that go beyond temporary relief strategies that address long-term climate risks and infrastructure needs.” Beyond the statistics and damage reports, Obi’s response reflects a broader call for national empathy, solidarity, and responsible governance. His emphasis on proactive governance stands in stark contrast to the typical reactive disaster management cycle in Nigeria, where aid frequently arrives late or is poorly coordinated.
He concluded his message with a prayer for the deceased and comfort for grieving families: “May God Almighty console them, forgive the sins of the departed, and grant them eternal rest.” Obi’s reaction highlights the necessity for a more resilient and responsive system, one that protects citizens’ lives not just through expressions of sympathy after tragedy, but through forward-thinking policies that aim to prevent such tragedies in the first place.
As climate change continues to amplify weather-related disasters worldwide, Nigeria’s leadership will be tested not only in how it responds but also in how it prepares for future challenges.
