195 Dead in Nigeria Floods as Worries Increase Over Potential Release from Lagdo Dam
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that the death toll from recent flooding in Nigeria has climbed to 195.
The agency’s spokesperson, Manzo Ezekiel, revealed this alarming update on Friday, August 30, highlighting the growing danger as floodwaters continue to rise.
Ezekiel warned that the situation remains dire, particularly for residents living near the River Benue.
“The water level is rising, and while it hasn’t reached the critical red level, it’s at a point where people should be preparing to evacuate,” he cautioned.
The River Benue, which flows through several Nigerian states including Adamawa, Taraba, and Gombe, is inching closer to dangerous levels. Although Ezekiel said the situation is not yet at its peak, communities along the river should remain vigilant.
He added, “If the water level hits the red mark, there will be significant danger.”
Ezekiel also raised concerns about the impending release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, a seasonal event that exacerbates flooding in Nigeria.
In 2022, the cascading effect of water released from the Lagdo Dam caused one of Nigeria’s worst flooding disasters in decades, resulting in the death of over 600 people and the displacement of thousands.
While Ezekiel noted that the Nigerian government has not yet been officially informed of when this will happen, it is expected around this time of year.
“When the water is released, Adamawa State will likely be the first to feel the impact, followed by other states along the River Benue and River Niger,” he warned.
NEMA continues to monitor the situation and urges state governments to take proactive steps in evacuating at-risk residents. The flooding crisis, driven primarily by heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers, shows no signs of abating soon.
