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TWO MONTHS AFTER MOKWA FLOOD DISASTER, VICTIMS STILL IN LIMBO AS RELIEF FUNDS SPARK ACCOUNTABILITY CRISIS

Two months after a flash flood devastated Mokwa town in Niger State, killing over 1,000 residents and rendering hundreds homeless, survivors are still sleeping in overcrowded schools and makeshift shelters, with no concrete support from authorities despite multiple promises of aid.

The tragic aftermath of the disaster has now been compounded by allegations of mismanagement, poor communication, and intimidation. Although Niger State Governor Umaru Bago announced a ₦1 billion cash relief package for victims, only about 100 individuals have reportedly received ₦1 million each. The rest continue to wait — with no clear updates, transparency, or timeline for disbursement.

A state-appointed committee tasked with handling relief distribution has declined repeated media requests for clarification. Frustration deepened when two young men who sought details on beneficiaries of a ₦10.96 million scholarship scheme — awarded to just 10 flood victims — were arrested, detained for over five hours, and coerced into signing pledges not to ask further questions or post online about the incident. To date, the list of beneficiaries has not been made public.

Meanwhile, the over ₦3 billion donated into the state’s emergency disaster account reportedly remains untouched, with not a single permanent shelter built. Victims continue to live in deplorable conditions — a stark contrast to the outpouring of goodwill and aid pledged in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

Human rights advocates and civil society groups are raising alarm over the lack of accountability and the suppression of citizens’ rights. There are increasing calls for both the federal and state governments to act decisively.

“This is no longer just about disaster relief. It’s about transparency, justice, and human dignity,” a concerned resident said. “Our people lost everything — homes, livelihoods, and loved ones. Now they are losing hope.”

The people of Mokwa are urging Governor Bago to ensure the committee publishes a full account of how resources — including donations, materials, and cash — have been used. Public pressure is also mounting on national institutions, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigerian Human Rights Commission, to monitor the situation and ensure that victims are not subjected to a second disaster: neglect and silence.

This is a heartfelt plea for urgent, coordinated action — to build decent shelters, ensure open communication, and restore dignity to families who have suffered enough. The situation demands compassion, not coercion; accountability, not intimidation.

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