Barely two months after a flood claimed more than 30 lives in Adamawa State, another disaster has struck, displacing thousands of residents and submerging communities in the state capital.
The downpour, which the Nigerian Meteorological Agency had forecast last Friday, began around 4 a.m. on Tuesday and lasted until midday, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
It was observed that worship centres, homes, and business premises across Yola were inundated. In Damilu, along the airport road, residents struggled to rescue family members and salvage belongings as floodwaters surged through their homes.
In Jambutu, Bachure, Runde, and Shinko, all in Yola North Local Government Area, hundreds of families were forced to abandon their homes, taking shelter along the roadside.
Dr. Celine Laori, Executive Secretary of the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA), described the incident as devastating, confirming that thousands of families have been displaced.
So far, there is no record of fatalities. My office, alongside the police, fire service, and other security agencies, is actively conducting rescue operations in affected areas,” Laori said.
The Adamawa State Police Command also confirmed that marine police units have been deployed for rescue efforts. Spokesman SP Suleiman Nguroje said Commissioner of Police Dankombo Morris personally visited affected communities, including Limiwa, Rumde, Shinko, and Jambutu, to assess the scale of destruction.
In a statement, the command urged residents to remain calm, avoid flooded areas, and prioritize the safety of their families and property.
Authorities assured the public of continued efforts to safeguard lives and property during and after the disaster.