Recent heavy rainfall has led to significant flooding in the Bode Saadu community, displacing numerous residents and inundating homes. The persistent downpours caused the Arinun Bridge to overflow, resulting in widespread water damage.
Reports indicate that houses located along the riverbank were particularly affected, prompting families to seek shelter in safer areas. Bode Saadu, situated just a few kilometers from the Jebba Dam along the Ilorin-Jebba federal highway, has been vulnerable to flooding in the past; however, residents noted that this incident has been especially severe.
Speaking to reporters, community members expressed frustration, highlighting that flooding is a recurring issue in the region. “This time around, it is the turn of Bode Saadu,” they remarked, attributing the flooding to inadequate infrastructure, particularly the makeshift bridge on the expressway, which could not accommodate the high volume of water.
In response to the disaster, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq visited the affected areas to assess the damage and offer support to the victims. During his visit, he expressed his sympathy and directed the State Emergency Management Agency to deliver relief materials to those displaced.
The governor also addressed the underlying issues contributing to the flooding, urging residents to reconsider building on floodplains and waterways to prevent future incidents. “Some of the buildings would not have been affected if they had vacated the floodplain,” he noted, emphasizing the need for sustainable planning and community awareness regarding flood risks.
As the community begins the recovery process, local authorities are working to implement measures that can mitigate future flooding and safeguard residents from potential hazards.