📍 Mokwa, Niger State — Displaced families in Niger State marked this year’s Eid al-Adha celebration under somber conditions following the devastating floods that ravaged Mokwa Local Government Area in late May.
The flooding, triggered by intense rainfall and the collapse of a local dam between May 28 and 29, swept away homes, roads, bridges, and farmland. According to local authorities, more than 200 people have been confirmed dead, over 1,000 remain missing, and more than 3,000 households have been displaced. Relief shelters have been set up in schools and open grounds across the region to accommodate survivors.
Despite their losses, many families still observed the Sallah holiday, offering prayers and sharing modest meals. But for most, the celebration was anything but festive.
“We are grateful to be alive,” said Amina Yahaya, a mother of four taking refuge in a primary school shelter. “But this is not how we imagined Sallah. We have no home, no clothes, no food. It is hard to feel joy when so much has been lost.”
The Niger State government, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has begun distributing relief materials including food, bedding, and medical supplies. Senator Sani Musa, representing Niger East, visited the affected communities and donated ₦50 million in aid along with truckloads of rice and other essentials.
President Bola Tinubu, through a statement released by his spokesperson, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured that the federal government would continue to support recovery efforts in the state.
“This tragedy is beyond what we can endure alone,” said community leader Alhaji Ibrahim Garba. “We appreciate the support, but we plead for more — especially housing and clean water. Many here are still sleeping outside.”
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of Islam’s most important holidays. Traditionally marked by feasting, prayers, and animal sacrifices, this year’s celebration in Mokwa was instead characterized by mourning and resilience.
With many of the affected residents calling for long-term support and infrastructure repair, attention now turns to the government’s response as Niger State begins the long road to recovery.
NewsGlobal Reporters