Heavy rainfall has caused widespread destruction in parts of Jalingo, the Taraba state capital, with the Mile Six axis identified as one of the worst affected areas following a prolonged downpour in the early hours of Saturday.
The rain, which began around 3:00 a.m, lasted for several hours, triggering severe flooding across multiple neighborhoods in the city.
Recounting their ordeals, residents reported that the intensity and duration of the rainfall led to rising water levels that inundated homes and displaced property.
Particularly affected was the area surrounding Excellence International School, where floodwaters reportedly swept through residential compounds, leaving behind debris and extensive damage.
Residents described the situation as alarming, noting that water levels rose rapidly, giving residents little time to salvage their belongings.
Many residents expressed frustration over what they described as a persistent problem caused by poor drainage infrastructure. According to them, flooding in the area has become a recurring issue, even during less intense rainfall.
“We are tired of this happening every year,” a resident who identified himself Nasiru Illiya lamented after his home was partially submerged.
“The drainage systems here are either blocked or completely insufficient. Each time it rains heavily, we are at risk,” he said.
Preliminary reports indicate that several households suffered losses, including damaged personal belongings, washed out pathways, and, in some cases, structural damage to buildings.
Community members have also raised health concerns, warning that stagnant floodwaters could increase the risk of waterborne diseases if urgent measures are not taken to address the situation.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for immediate intervention by relevant authorities. Residents are urging both local and state governments to improve drainage systems and implement sustainable flood control strategies to reduce the impact of seasonal rains.
With the rainy season gaining momentum, there are growing fears that similar incidents may occur in other parts of the city if proactive steps are not taken to safeguard lives and property.
