Niger confirms five more deaths in Mokwa Flood, toll rises to 158

The Niger State Government has announced the recovery of five additional bodies from the devastating flood that recently struck Mokwa Local Government Area, raising the official death toll to 158.

According to a statement signed on Tuesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, four of the victims were recovered late yesterday, while another body was found early this morning. All recovered bodies have since been buried in line with local customs.

The government, while confirming the new figures, appealed to residents and members of the public to remain calm and prayerful in this period of collective mourning. It also urged citizens to desist from sharing unverified information that could worsen public anxiety or trigger panic in the affected communities.

“As we continue to mourn the lives lost, the Government remains committed to supporting the affected families and sustaining ongoing search, rescue and relief efforts where necessary,” the statement read.

The flood disaster, which struck last week, left hundreds of families displaced and widespread destruction across several communities in Mokwa, drawing national attention to the region’s vulnerability to environmental hazards.

The government has reassured that comprehensive humanitarian support is being mobilised for the survivors and displaced victims, even as search operations continue.

“May their souls rest in peace,” the statement added.