Abuja flash floods submerge vehicles and disrupt major roads

Heavy rainfall has triggered severe flash flooding across several districts in Abuja, Nigeria, including Wuse 2, Gudu, Lokogoma, Guzape, and Lugbe. The flooding has submerged vehicles, damaged property, and disrupted movement on major roads, such as the bridge linking Gaduwa and Durumi and the Ebeano-Gudu road. Residents reported homes being inundated and businesses forced to close.

The disaster has sparked significant criticism regarding urban planning and infrastructure. Activist Deji Adeyanju has called for a review of land allocations, alleging that developments have encroached upon green spaces and waterways designated by the Abuja Master Plan. He argued that the flooding is not merely a result of rainfall but a consequence of distorted planning.

In response, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, through his spokesperson, attributed the persistent flooding to the challenges of a rapidly expanding city and the theft of drainage covers by scavengers. The administration noted that similar flooding occurred in 2019 and 2022, suggesting that drainage and waste management have not kept pace with urban growth. Meanwhile, residents have expressed frustration over the lack of effective drainage maintenance despite previous government warnings and ecological fund disbursements.