Seven-Year-Old Boy Swept Away By Flood In Niger State Amid Drainage Concerns

A tragic scene unfolded in the Emiliman Nasarafu ward of Bida Local Government Area, Niger State, on Thursday, June 26, 2025, as a seven-year-old boy identified as Mohammed Mohammed was swept away by raging floodwaters and remains missing.

Eyewitnesses blame the incident on poor drainage management allegedly caused by Arab Contractors, the construction firm handling a major bypass road in the area. According to locals, the firm’s diversion of natural drainage channels led to a dangerous build-up of water during a heavy downpour.

The child’s father, Mohammed Usman, who is still in anguish, said the family and community members launched an immediate search operation once the rains ceased, but have yet to recover the boy’s body.

“My pain is that, up to this moment, my son’s body has not been found,” he lamented. Despite the tragedy, Usman expressed deep faith, adding, “From Allah we come, and unto Him we shall return.”

The heartbreaking loss has sparked concerns among residents over repeated flooding incidents in the state. This is not the first time Niger has witnessed devastation this rainy season, just weeks ago, floods in Mokwa reportedly claimed more than 150 lives.

Calls are growing louder for state authorities and contractors to prioritize proper drainage infrastructure and environmental safety, especially as the rains intensify across Nigeria.