2 Killed, Homes Destroyed As Flood Ravages Yobe Communities

Two people have lost their lives while scores of families have been displaced by a heavy rainfall that triggered flooding across parts of Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.

The downpour on Sunday affected several communities, including Malari, Pompomari, and surrounding areas, destroying houses and forcing many residents to flee.

The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) confirmed the incident in a statement posted on its official social media platforms, stating that the flooding occurred on 3rd August, 2026, and claimed the lives of two residents.

According to the agency, the deceased were identified as Isa Haruna, 38, a security personnel popularly known as Mallam Matari, and Abba Kyari, 18, who drowned in the Pompomari area.

YOSEMA said its Search and Rescue Team, working in collaboration with the Yobe State Fire Service, responded promptly after receiving distress reports of the incident. Upon arrival, the victims were confirmed dead, and their bodies were evacuated to the mortuary of the General Sani Abacha Specialist Hospital, Damaturu.

The agency urged residents to observe flood safety measures by avoiding walking, playing or driving through flooded roads, drainage channels and waterways. It also advised parents to keep children away from rivers, streams, culverts and other flood-prone areas.

Residents were further encouraged to clear blocked drainage channels around their homes, remain attentive to early warning alerts, avoid contact with potentially contaminated floodwater, and promptly report missing persons or flood-related emergencies to emergency or the nearest security agency.

Speaking to LEADERSHIP, a resident of the Malari community, Malam Bulama Jalaludeen, confirmed the deaths and described the annual flooding as a recurring challenge caused by inadequate drainage infrastructure.

“This has become a yearly tragedy for our community. Without proper drainage and waterways, every heavy rainfall puts lives and property at risk,” he said.

Another resident, Modu Adamu of Abbari Sabon Kwalta, said many affected families could no longer remain in their homes due to the extent of the flooding.

According to him, several displaced residents have taken shelter in public buildings, while others are temporarily staying with relatives.

The affected communities, therefore, appealed to the government to urgently construct and expand drainage infrastructure to address the persistent flooding that has repeatedly destroyed homes, displaced families and claimed lives.

Although the Yobe State Government has undertaken drainage expansion and water channel projects in parts of the capital in recent years, residents say more comprehensive interventions are needed to tackle the recurring floods and reduce the impact of future heavy rainfall.

Authorities have continued to urge residents, particularly those living in flood-prone areas, to remain vigilant, heed safety advisories and take necessary precautions to protect lives and property during the rainy season.