Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday visited Mokwa in Niger State, where devastating floods recently claimed many lives and displaced several residents. His visit served as both a gesture of sympathy and a call for national awareness around the human cost of climate-related disasters.
Obi, who was accompanied by the party’s acting National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, and the National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, Dr Yunusa Tanko, met with flood victims and expressed deep concern over the tragedy that struck the community.
He also paid a courtesy visit to the Niger State Government House, where he was received by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba. The visit underscored a message of unity and responsibility across political divides in times of crisis.
In a statement shared on his X handle, Obi wrote, “I travelled to Niger to condole and show solidarity with the governor and the good people of the state over the devastating floods in the Mokwa area of Niger.”
His presence at the scene highlighted the need for urgent humanitarian attention, stronger environmental management, and better national disaster response systems to prevent future losses.
“While in the UK yesterday, I had earlier called the governor, Governor Mohammed Bago, to express my heartfelt condolences.
“While in Niger, I was warmly received by the Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, and we had a discussion about the urgent needs of the affected communities, where over 200 lives have been lost.
“About 1,000 persons are still missing, more than 3,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and several homes destroyed.
“As I mentioned during the visit, this incident and others happening all over Nigeria affect us all, and as a family, we must come together to care, comfort and stand together, especially in times of grief and difficulty.
“I hereby urge and appeal to the Federal Government, all support agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to assist the good people of Niger in ameliorating their suffering.”
Obi commended the governor and the local response teams for their courage and resilience in the face of the overwhelming challenge.
“As part of my commitment to stand with the people of Niger during this difficult time, I made an initial donation of ₦20 million to support the effort of the government and I will continue to support their efforts.
“I pray that God comforts the families of those who have lost their loved ones, protects those still missing, and grants healing and strength to everyone affected by this disaster. May Niger find peace and restoration,” he said.
