In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the people of Adeta-Pakata and several other areas within the Ilorin metropolis found themselves battling the devastating effects of a recent torrential downpour that has left their homes and properties, collectively valued at millions of Naira, submerged in floodwaters. This grim situation has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster.
One particularly tragic incident emerged from the Okefoma-Adabiyah area of Ilorin, where a young boy was tragically swept away by the surging floodwaters. However, thanks to the heroic efforts of the local community, the child was successfully rescued. Despite this glimmer of hope, the loss of life remains a somber reminder of the gravity of the situation. The affected families are now left mourning their irreplaceable loss.
Abdulrahman Abdullahi Kayode, known as Greatkay and serving as the scribe for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed his deepest sympathies for the affected families. “My thoughts and prayers are with the people of the Adeta-Pakata area and some other places in the Ilorin metropolis whose houses and properties worth Millions of Naira were flooded as a result of the recent downpour,” he stated.
Eyewitness accounts have suggested that this flooding was exacerbated by alleged incorrect road designs resulting from the covering of essential drainages by the current administration, led by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq. Previously constructed drainages, intended to facilitate the smooth passage of floodwaters, were concealed beneath cosmetic road projects in what some view as a political move in the lead-up to the 2023 general elections.
Kayode emphasized the importance of effective governance, planning, and institutionalized Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) to prioritize the safety of the people when approving and implementing projects. He noted, “This unfortunate incident would have been avoidable if the government in Kwara under Mall Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq truly understood what sustainable development is.”
Concerns have also been raised about the governor’s perceived absence from the state, with accusations of partial relocation to Abuja. Kayode, as a prominent member of the opposition party, PDP, appealed to Governor Abdulrazaq to return to Kwara and address the pressing issues facing the state.
In the immediate aftermath of this calamity, there is a growing call for urgent government intervention to prevent future occurrences and provide immediate relief to those affected. The people of Kwara are in desperate need of support during this challenging time as they attempt to navigate the turbulent waters of this disaster.
Abdulrahman Abdullahi Kayode, writing from the Kwara State PDP Secretariat, reiterated his commitment to advocating for the welfare of the people and the prioritization of effective governance to avert further crises in the state. The eyes of Kwara remain fixed on their leaders, hoping for swift action and relief in the wake of this tragedy.
Aduagba Faruq is a skilled writer, conversationist, and freelance journalist with a strong background in English and Literary Studies. He crafts engaging stories with passion, truth, and creativity.