SEMA Cautions Kano Residents Of Inevitable Flooding, Says About 20 LGAs At Risk

Kano State Emergency Management Agency has advised residents of no fewer than 20 local government areas to clear their drains to prevent flooding in the state.

The Executive Secretary of the agency, Dr Sale Jili, gave the advice in an interview with newsmen on Wednesday.

Jili listed the local government areas likely to be affected as Kabo; Gezawa, Bebeji, Kura, Gwarzo, Shanono, Wudil and Gaya.

Others are Gabasawa; Danbatta, Bagwai, Rimin Gado, Ungogo, Gwale, Fagge, Tarauani, Nasarawa, Dala, Kumbotso and Kano Municipal Council.

He said the advice became necessary following the prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, that some states, including Kano, would experience serious floods in 2020 due to heavy rainfall.

“Our interest is to maintain a flood free environment in the state,’’ he said.

Jili noted that some houses were built with mud, while weak materials were used to make blocks which could not withstand water during heavy rain.

He, however, said that the state agency would not relent in its effort to protect lives and property.

“We are going to collaborate with all the five first class emirs and district heads in the state to sensitise the public to take precautionary measures against flood, windstorm and rainstorm. Jili said

“I urge those who are not yet affected by the flood to take precautionary measures by clearing their drains; collect refuse and dispose it at appropriate places.’’

The secretary urged religious leaders to seek God’s protection against windstorm and rainstorm.

Meanwhile, the agency said that rainstorm destroyed crops worth over N40 million in Bagwai LGA of the state.

Jili said that 550 farmers were affected, while areas affected were Gadanya, Jobar, Jobe, Gadawa and Galawa.

He said that the agency was doing everything possible to assist the affected farmers.

“The affected places were visited to assess the damage so as to write to Gov, Abdullahi Ganduje, to provide assistance,” he said.

Jili said that relief materials, including 100 bags of cement, 10 bundles of roofing sheets, 50 pieces of mattress had been distributed to affected persons.

He added that 50 pieces of blanket, rice, guinea corn, millet, pasta.and salt were given to them to alleviate their sufferings.