Two weeks ago, Muslims and Christians in northern Nigeria embarked on prayer sessions beseeching the Almighty to allow rainfalls to nurture their new farms, which had withered.
A few days ago, the rains brought in increased floods, which resulted in avoidable deaths in many parts of northern Nigeria, along with incidents of stabbing in other areas.
For instance, the heavy rainfall that fell on Thursday and Friday in Taraba State has relieved farmers.
Reports showed that heavy rainfall started at about 7.30 pm Thursday and lasted at about 10.30 am Friday.
There had been increased hope of getting good harvests; however, some farmers said they would replant crops that dried up.
Findings revealed that many parts of the state were not that lucky because no rainfall was recorded yet.
However, a farmer in Maihula said that in parts of Bali town, only small showers of rain lasted a few minutes on Thursday.
He said the area has been without rain for many weeks, and crops are drying out.
Heavy rainfall was recorded in Jalingo, the state capital, as well as in Gassol, Ardo-Kola, Karim-Lamido, and Gashaka local government areas.
KANO
Meanwhile, in Kano State, the police have raised concerns over the rise in flood-related deaths, including homicides.
The Commissioner of Police, Salman-Dogo Garba, through the Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said residents must exercise caution and restraints as the rains have set in.
He said there have been reports about drowning and other flood-related deaths.
He said, “The Kano State Police Command has observed a disturbing and alarming trend of increased cases of culpable homicide resulting from fighting, stabbing with knives, drowning in water, and flood-related deaths. These incidents have resulted in the loss of precious lives, leaving families and communities devastated.
“The Command is deeply concerned about this trend and urges the public to exercise extreme caution and restraint in their daily interactions to prevent such occurrences. In this regard, we appeal to parents and guardians to counsel their children and wards on the dangers of engaging in violent behavior and the consequences of such actions.”
The command therefore advised members of the public to “avoid engaging in physical altercations or arguments that could escalate into violence; refrain from carrying dangerous weapons, especially knives, broken bottles, irons, and clubs; be mindful of their surroundings; and avoid situations that could lead to physical harm.
It also urges the public to avoid traveling or moving around during heavy rainfall and flooding.
The command’s advisory cautioned the public to stay away from flooded areas, avoid attempting to cross flooded roads or waterways, and report any incidents or suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
He added that the Kano State Police Command was working tirelessly to address this issue and ensure public safety.
“We have increased patrols and surveillance in high-risk areas, and the Police Command is engaging with community leaders and stakeholders to address the root causes of these incidents.
