Obi Visits Niger State, Offers Condolences, Support In Wake Of Devastating Floods

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, paid a visit to Niger State on Monday to express his condolences and support to those affected by the region’s recent devastating floods.

Obi personally assessed the damage, consoled grieving families, and pledged financial assistance to the state government during his visit, which came at a time when national concern about the scale of the disaster was growing.

Obi’s presence, accompanied by key Labour Party figures such as Acting National Chairman Dr. Nenadi Usman and National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement Dr. Yunusa Tanko, provided the affected communities with much-needed solidarity and hope.

The delegation began their visit in the heart of the disaster zone, seeing firsthand the extent of the damage caused by the relentless flooding.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of widespread devastation, with homes submerged, infrastructure damaged, and countless lives shattered.

Beyond the symbolic visit to the affected area, Obi met with the Niger State Government at Minna’s Government House.

He was greeted warmly by Deputy Governor Alhaji Yakubu Garba, who thanked Obi for his prompt response and concern for the people of Niger State.

The discussions focused on the displaced populations’ immediate needs, relief efforts’ challenges, long-term recovery strategies, and flood prevention measures.

Following the visit, Obi used his X (formerly Twitter) account to share his thoughts and reiterate his commitment to supporting the state.

He emphasised the gravity of the situation, citing the estimated loss of over 200 lives, a missing person count of around 1,000, and the displacement of over 3,000 people.

“This incident, like others in Nigeria, affects us all, and as a family, we must come together to care, comfort, and stand together, especially in times of grief and difficulty,” Obi wrote, emphasising the importance of national unity in the face of such tragedy.

He made a strong appeal to the Nigerian government, support agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to provide immediate assistance to the affected communities, emphasising the critical need for resources to address the immediate humanitarian crisis while also supporting the long-term rebuilding process.

Obi also praised Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the local response teams for their dedication and perseverance in the face of overwhelming challenges.

He acknowledged the difficult task ahead and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the people of Niger State during this trying time.

Obi pledged ₦20 million to support the Niger State Government’s relief efforts.

“As part of my commitment to stand with the people of Niger State during this difficult time, I made an initial donation of ₦20 million to support the government and will continue to support them,” he stated.

The Niger State government has expressed gratitude for the donation, describing it as a significant contribution to meeting the immediate needs of displaced and affected communities.

The visit ended with a prayer for the families who have lost loved ones, the safe return of the missing, and the healing and strength of everyone affected by the disaster.

Obi expressed hope for Niger State’s restoration and peace, leaving a message of resilience and solidarity behind him.

While the donation will have an immediate impact on the displaced by providing food, shelter, and medical assistance, questions remain about the long-term solutions required to prevent future flooding events.

Experts blame climate change, inadequate infrastructure, and unsustainable land management practices for the increased frequency and severity of flooding in Nigeria.

Obi’s visit not only brought attention to the plight of the people of Niger State but also reignited the debate about the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies on a national scale.

The next few weeks will be critical in ensuring that relief efforts continue and that necessary steps are taken to rebuild the lives and livelihoods of those affected by this devastating tragedy.