Flood: FCT says four persons died, 26 vehicles washed away

The Authority of Federal Capital Territory has confirmed that four persons lost their lives and 26 vehicles- including an articulated towing van were washed away in the recent flood disaster that occurred in Trademore, Light Gold, Wisdom Estates and Lugbe community of the Federal Capital Territory.

According to FCTA, the tarred road in Trademore Estate was completely washed away as a result of the strength of the flood water.

In a statement, the Director General, FEMA Abbas G. Idriss said in the course of rescue operations the recovered bodies had been taken by family members for burial.

He added that 166 houses were affected and the Agency was still estimating the volume of losses suffered as a result of this flood.

Idriss also conveyed the deepest sympathies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Muhammed Musa Bello, to the residents of Trademore Estate, Light Gold Estate, Wisdom Estate, Lugbe Community, affected individuals and families- including those of surrounding communities, over the loss of lives and property.

He appealed to the members of the Community living along the axis to report any missing person or persons between the period of the flood till September 13, 2021 to the FCT Emergency Management Agency.

He said some communities in Gwagwalada including Giri, Unguwar Dodo and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps Gwagwalada Command had been put on alert to report any case of floating bodies or property on the river channel for prompt rescue.

Idriss also appealed to all residents of the Federal Capital Territory especially developers to desist from violating the approved building codes in the Federal Capital Territory.

He also appealed to them to stop erecting retention walls to protect storm water from flowing, adding that by doing so they are causing more havoc to the community.

“We also call on all residents to always call the 112 toll-free Emergency number to get prompt response when there is any form of threat or danger, as the Search and Rescue team of the Agency alongside other emergency stakeholders are on 24/7 alert.

“Lastly, as we enter the final phase of the rainy season in the Federal Capital Territory- a phase in which rainfall is always at its peak, I once again call on all residents to avoid dumping of refuse in drainages;

“Clear all surrounding drainages and other blockages that obstruct the free flow of water to reduce flood risk and its negative consequences;

“Avoid driving or walking through flood water; Relocate to higher ground before being threatened by flood water for those who are living along the river banks;

“Watch for sign posts on flood locations
And also take seriously FEMA’s early warning sensitization from the media and town criers,” Idris said.