Former military leader Ibrahim Babangida has described the Mokwa flood, which claimed over 200 lives, as a tragic but divine occurrence, urging prayers and faith amid the devastation.
- Over 200 people were killed in the Mokwa flood disaster in Niger State.
- IBB called it “unfortunate but ordained by Allah” during a Sallah visit.
- He praised Governor Bago's administration and pledged his continued support.
- The Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, led the delegation and thanked IBB for his fatherly role.
IBB’s remarks reflect the cultural and religious undertone often seen in Nigeria’s response to disasters, where acts of nature are interpreted through a lens of divine will. While offering comfort, this framing also underscores a persistent gap in proactive climate and emergency infrastructure.
His endorsement of the current state government could also be seen as symbolic, especially as Niger grapples with both floods and insecurity. The state’s leadership continues to court support from national figures, perhaps in search of unity amid mounting public pressure.
The Mokwa disaster has left deep scars. As families mourn, many hope that the next steps from the state government will go beyond condolence visits and into stronger disaster preparedness systems.
