By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi on Monday visited communities devastated by catastrophic flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, bringing relief and solidarity to victims of one of the worst floods in recent years. The disaster has claimed over 150 lives, left more than 1,000 missing, and displaced at least 3,000 residents.
Arriving in Minna shortly after returning from the UK, Obi was welcomed by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba. Accompanied by his spokesperson Dr. Yunusa Tanko and former minister Nenadi Usman, Obi had earlier communicated with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to offer condolences and support.
During a closed-door meeting with state emergency officials, Obi assessed the extensive damage. He described the situation as “heart-wrenching,” noting that entire communities were uprooted and futures uncertain. “This is not just a local tragedy—it’s a national emergency,” he said.
Obi announced a personal donation of ₦20 million to support relief efforts and pledged ongoing assistance to affected communities. He called on the federal government, emergency agencies, and Nigerians to unite beyond political divides. “Disasters of this magnitude do not respect political lines or geography. We must act as one people, with compassion and urgency, to bring healing and hope,” he urged.
Stressing the importance of proactive measures, Obi highlighted the need for climate-resilient infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and environmental conservation. “We must invest in systems that prevent such tragedies rather than react after the fact,” he added.
Deputy Governor Garba praised Obi’s visit as a rare and impactful act of leadership. Many residents, now sheltering in makeshift camps, welcomed the visit as a vital morale boost.
Obi’s intervention has been widely seen as a rallying call for coordinated national action to address the increasing threat of climate-induced disasters in Nigeria.
