A prolonged downpour that lasted over nine hours on Monday submerged several homes and streets across Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, leaving residents battling floodwaters and commuters stranded. The heavy rainfall began in the early hours of the day and affected key areas including Achussa, New GRA, behind Radio Benue, Nyiman, Idye, Naka Road, North Bank, Ankpa Quarters, Tilley Gyado-Terwase Agbadu, Wurukum, and Wadata. Residents reported water entering their houses, damaging furniture, food items, and other household goods, while vehicles struggled to move through flooded roads.
Our reporter observed that residential buildings and commercial premises near ongoing construction sites and riverbanks were among the worst hit. The flooding was particularly severe in low-lying areas where drainage systems are already strained. Many residents expressed concern over the lack of proper drainage maintenance, especially in zones where road projects are underway.
Agbo Benedict, a local resident, blamed the worsening situation on blocked drainage channels caused by ongoing road construction. He urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to direct contractors to clear the blockages and ensure free flow of water. “The drainage systems are clogged because construction companies have closed them without proper alternatives,” he said. He added that indiscriminate road closures during construction have made matters worse.
Another resident, Angela Ortyon, acknowledged that some government-built drainage projects had helped reduce the impact of the flood. However, she noted that new construction activities across the city may have exacerbated the problem. “Where drainage channels have been blocked for construction work, water has nowhere to go,” she explained. She called for better coordination between builders and local authorities to prevent future disasters.
The Information Officer of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Terna Ager, confirmed receiving reports of flooding in Achussa. However, he stated that SEMA officials had not yet visited the area to assess the damage or provide immediate relief. There is currently no official count of displaced persons or property losses, but residents continue to appeal for urgent intervention.
As rain continues to fall in parts of the state, many fear more flooding if drainage systems remain obstructed. Authorities are under increasing pressure to address infrastructure gaps and ensure timely responses to weather-related emergencies. The incident highlights the need for sustainable urban planning and proactive disaster management in growing cities like Makurdi.
Leave a Comment