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HOMEF Sympathises with Flood Victims, Calls for Government to be Proactive
HOMEF Sympathises with Flood Victims, Calls for Government to be Proactive
By: Michael Mike
Flooding has become a persistent nightmare in Nigeria. In 2012, floods affected 33 out of the 36 states following the rain that fell between July and October that year. The floods displaced over 2 million people, resulting in more than 400 deaths and other associated destruction. In 2018, the Benue and Niger rivers overflowed due to heavy rainfall, causing flooding in 12 states, including Kogi and Niger. Four years later, in 2022, another severe flood killed over 600 individuals, displacing more than 2 million others. The impacts of these floods have been catastrophic for communities and states.
Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) expresses sympathy for the families of the victims of the recent flood that struck Mokwa – a transit town for traders in Niger State, North Central Nigeria. It was reported that at approximately 3:00 am on Thursday, May 29, 2025, there was intense rainfall followed by a hazardous flood, which is said to have displaced over 3000 residents, destroyed properties, and claimed over 100 lives, with many individuals still unaccounted for.
While mourning this tragic loss, HOMEF emphasised that the government must take proactive measures to prevent similar or worse incidents from occurring in the future.
The Executive Director of HOMEF, Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, in his reaction to the recent flood event in Niger State, noted that communities and cities in flood-prone areas could seize to exist if nothing is done to address this menace.
“This is a horrendous recurring decimal. There is no word to describe our lack of preparedness and our ill-maintained infrastructure. Combined with insecurity and the fact that more rain is expected, the displacement problems will be compounded. There is no time for excuses. This is the time to declare an environmental state of emergency across board. This national emergency can impact our national wellbeing by leading to food scarcity, environmental degradation, mass displacement, increased poverty, water-borne diseases and exacerbate insecurity.”
Dr Bassey further responded on forecasts and early warnings from different agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). He expressed his disappointment, emphasising that these warnings become meaningless if provisions are not made to move people and settle them on safe and higher ground.
“Nigeria needs to be proactive; our government needs to have emergency preparedness and be able to relocate people when these warnings and forecasts are made, to avert the kinds of disasters we see when flooding events like this occur. We sympathise with the families affected by the floods and stand in solidarity with the communities that have been impacted.”
Stephen Oduware, Programme Manager of Fossil Politics at HOMEF, noted that flood damage continues to escalate, making recovery challenging and problematic.
“The rains are just beginning, and there are signs of more flash floods. Apart from the usual palliative measures and reactionary responses, what plans are in place to ensure that the already predicted localised heavy rainfalls do not result in the kinds of catastrophes we witness during floods? What is the Nigerian government doing to address the issues of flooding holistically? When floods occur, they leave a trail of destruction, causing damage to properties, loss of lives, livelihoods, and other socioeconomic impacts.”
HOMEF believes that flooding is both a consequence of climate change and a result of poorly planned urban areas and inadequate emergency preparedness. While the effects of climate change are widespread, many Nigerian cities and towns are also beset by the latter.
HOMEF calls for immediate measures to address the root cause of climate change, for improvement on practices that preserve natural habitats and wetlands, and investment in infrastructure that can help reduce the frequency and seriousness of flooding.
HOMEF calls on all relevant agencies to work together in a fully synchronised manner to ensure that every facet of the disaster is addressed and succour is extended to the impacted people.
HOMEF Sympathises with Flood Victims, Calls for Government to be Proactive
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
By: Zagazola Makama
Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, Chief of Operations at the Naval Headquarters (NHQ), has died following a brief illness.
Rear Admiral Katagum, a highly respected officer of the Nigerian Navy, recently served at Defence Headquarters and was formerly the Chief of Naval Intelligence.
He was recently appointed Chief of Operations by the Chief of Naval Staff, a role in which he oversaw critical operational activities and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s maritime security.
During his distinguished career, Rear Admiral Katagum’s contributions to national security were immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping operational strategies, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and mentoring generations of officers who would go on to emulate his professionalism and dedication.
His insight, foresight, and meticulous approach to operations ensured that the Nigerian Navy remained vigilant, formidable, and ready to defend the nation’s maritime interests. His contributions played a vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and enhancing the operational readiness of the Nigerian Navy.
The news of his death has sent ripples of grief through the Armed Forces, with his colleagues describing him as a symbol of courage, discipline, and service excellence. Senior naval officers have expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a visionary leader whose legacy will endure within the Navy.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, he will be remembered for his humility, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of those who served alongside him.
As we mourn this extraordinary officer, we celebrate a life dedicated to the service of Nigeria, a life marked by courage, honor, and excellence.
May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may the Almighty grant comfort to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of serving with him.
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police Command in Kwara State has arrested 19 suspected bandits and cattle rustlers during a bush clearance operation around Ekati village, Lade.
Police sources said the operation, carried out in collaboration with Miyetti Allah vigilantes, led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including Mohammed Salihu, 25; Mohammadu Musa, 23; Abubakar Sani aka Siddi, 25; Yusuf Isah aka Lariya, 22; Mohammadu Ibrahim aka Iro, 21; Mohammadu Sani aka Kachalla Ruga, 65; Musa Ado aka Mandu, 65; Abubakar Adamu aka Buba, 26; Mohammadu Zangina, 25; and Abubakar Shaibu aka Jijji, 20.
Most of the suspects were reportedly from Zamfara State, while one hailed from Niger Republic and another from Katsina State.
Police said 370 cows and 58 goats were recovered as exhibits from the suspects.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, the command added.
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered a firearm during a tactical operation along waterways in the state.
Police sources said the operation was conducted at about 11:10 p.m. on Feb. 16 by a SWAT team following credible intelligence on the activities of a militant group identified as the “Blin Blin Marine Strike Force,” allegedly operating along the Uruan waterways and Itu waterfronts.
According to the sources, officers on a clearance mission at Ikot Ika waterfront encountered the suspects in a gun duel. During the exchange, one police inspector sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.
Two members of the group were neutralised during the encounter, while others reportedly escaped through the waterways with gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the suspects included a G3 assault rifle and four rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the group was allegedly led by Ubong Effiong Archibong, also known as “Condiment,” who was on a police wanted list over alleged involvement in multiple kidnapping and violent crime incidents, including attacks on prominent individuals and security personnel.
The police said operations were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the remaining criminal network.
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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