Two teenagers have reportedly drowned in a river at Askplaye community in Kaduna State following days of torrential rainfall and flooding across parts of the state.
The victims were identified as 19-year-old Suleiman Yakubu and 17-year-old Abubakar Mohammed.
The National Emergency Management Agency confirmed the incident, stating that the bodies of the two teenagers had yet to be recovered as of Tuesday.
The agency’s North-West Operations Office, working with the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency and other stakeholders, has continued to assess communities affected by the heavy rainfall.
The downpour reportedly lasted for about four consecutive days, from Thursday to Monday, affecting several parts of the Kaduna metropolis.
According to NEMA, its Head of Operations, Hajia Halima Suleiman, led an assessment team to some of the affected communities to determine the extent of the flooding and its impact on residents.
The agency said some communities experienced flash floods that submerged roads and temporarily trapped residents inside their homes.
The flooding also disrupted movement in several areas, forcing residents to exercise caution while navigating the affected communities.
NEMA further disclosed that Suleiman visited the family of Yakubu to sympathise with them over the teenager’s death and offer support.
The agency said its officials, in collaboration with KADSEMA and other emergency responders, would continue monitoring the flood situation and assessing the needs of affected communities to facilitate an appropriate response.
The incident has renewed concerns over the dangers posed by flooding, particularly in communities located near waterways, as authorities continue efforts to mitigate the impact of the heavy rains.