Heavy rains in Plateau State have caused widespread destruction in the Langtang South Local Government Area, leaving many residents displaced.
The rains, which began on Friday, October 4, 2024, and continued into the early hours of Sunday, October 6, 2024, triggered severe flooding, particularly in communities like Sabo Gari, where homes were swept away and families left stranded.
Among the worst-hit areas is Angwan Bwarat in Sabon Gida, where Mr. Nandul Solomon, a local resident, confirmed the devastating impact of the flood.
Speaking with The PUNCH in Jos on Sunday, Solomon expressed the widespread confusion and panic gripping the community, as many residents search for shelter after losing their homes.
“The flood didn’t claim lives, but it was huge. Right now, over 80 households have had their houses destroyed by the flood, rendering many others homeless. The displaced persons are currently searching for where to stay, while others are staying with neighbours, friends, or relatives,” Solomon explained.
The situation is particularly dire for residents of Sabo Gari, where the floodwaters have displaced dozens of families, leaving them dependent on the goodwill of neighbors and relatives for temporary shelter.
Community leaders have voiced their concerns, appealing for immediate intervention.
Secretary of the Sabo Gari Development Association, Mr. Yintim Nimilam, expressed his dismay over the situation and pleaded for assistance.
“We appeal to the government and relevant authorities to come to our rescue. The incident is rather unfortunate. As it is, several persons are currently displaced and staying with relatives, and many others don’t know what to do about the situation that has befallen them,” he said.
Efforts to reach Plateau State Emergency Management Agency officials for a response have been unsuccessful, as calls to the Executive Secretary, Sunday Abdu, went unanswered, with his phone appearing to be switched off.
Meanwhile, displaced residents continue to endure difficult conditions, waiting for relief efforts to be mobilized as they face the aftermath of the flooding.
