By Thompson Yamput
Rainstorms and flooding are wreaking havoc in Kogi State, leaving several communities and schools severely affected, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.
Communities in Idah, Kabba-Bunu, Ofu, Okehi and Lokoja Local Government Areas (LGAs) have been hit hard.
Affected areas include Okehi. Aiyeteju, Iyah, Ben Thomas, Kajola, and Fehinti in Kabba-Bunu LGA; Sakin Noma in Lokoja LGA; and the Federal Polytechnic in Idah LGA.
Residents of these communities, including those at the Polytechnic, are counting their losses after devastating rainstorms and flash floods swept through the region, leaving behind extensive destruction.
On Wednesday, Mr Adetope Ademiluyi, Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Idah, said two successive rainstorms caused major damage to the institution’s infrastructure, disrupting academic activities.
He reported that lecture halls, laboratories, and hostels were among the buildings affected.
“The sad incident has deeply impacted staff and student morale.
“We are earnestly soliciting support and assistance from the government, corporate organisations, and the public to help us rebuild.
“As the premier institution of higher learning in Kogi, we remain committed to delivering quality education,” he said.”
Some residents of Kabba-Bunu LGA blamed the flooding on poor drainage systems, the state’s ongoing gully erosion control projects, and abandoned road construction work.
According to Samuel Moses and Ifeoma Nwasu, the combination of torrential rainfall and stalled erosion control efforts significantly worsened the flooding.
However, Mr Rabah Harb, Project Manager at Levant Construction Ltd., denied any responsibility, stating that the company should not be held accountable for the damage caused by the flood.
Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Alhaji Mouktar Atimah, described the situation as “devastating” and “very unfortunate.”
He said SEMA, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), planned to visit the affected communities and the Polytechnic to assess the level of damage and coordinate a response.
He assured that Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s administration was fully committed to protecting residents from the devastating effects of flooding in 2025. NAN
