The Gombe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has reported that severe flooding has destroyed 2,517 houses and shops, and ravaged over 1,000 hectares of farmland, affecting 33 communities across the state. The affected areas include Dukku, Funakaye, and Billiri Local Government Areas.
According to SEMA’s Deputy Director, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mr. Ibrahim Nalado, the floods were triggered by heavy downpours between August 12-22. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities, but two children were injured in Dukku, and seven animals were washed away.
The flooding has had a significant impact on farmlands, particularly in Hina community, Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area, where over 1,000 hectares of rice, maize, sorghum, and millet fields were submerged. Farmers, who were preparing to harvest their crops, have been severely affected by the disaster.
SEMA is currently assessing the extent of the damage and compiling reports to submit to the state government and relevant agencies. The agency is appealing for support from the North East Development Commission and National Emergency Management Agency to address the devastation and provide relief to affected communities.
