Abuja Residents Get Flood Warning as Heavy Rains Persist
Abuja residents have been handed a fresh flood alert by the Federal Fire Service (FFS), FCT Command, as intense and sustained rainfall continues across the Federal Capital Territory.
Muhammed Anas, the Controller of the FCT Command, called on inhabitants to stay alert, especially those in low-lying areas, near riverbanks, or where drainage systems are poor.
In a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, Anas noted that human actions can make flooding worse, and that safeguarding lives and property is a shared duty involving residents and the authorities.
He warned specifically against dumping refuse carelessly into drains, gutters, canals, and waterways, and against building on floodplains, waterways, and drainage channels.
The FFS listed other activities that can aggravate flooding: blocked drainage systems, sand dredging, and random excavation near rivers and streams.
It also pointed to constructing buildings without approved plans or sufficient drainage, poorly built roads and culverts that block natural water flow, and farming or building along riverbanks and other flood-prone spots.
Anas advised residents to routinely remove refuse and debris from drains, gutters, and their surroundings, and to steer clear of settling or building in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
He also encouraged them to keep an eye on weather forecasts and to follow flood alerts and safety instructions from the relevant authorities.
The FFS cautioned against trying to cross flooded roads, bridges, streams, or rivers on foot or by vehicle, and said children should be kept away from floodwaters, drains, rivers, and open culverts.
Those in flooded areas were told to turn off electrical appliances and avoid contact with electrical installations, wires, and appliances that may have been exposed to water.
If flooding happens, the Service said residents should stay calm and move at once to higher ground or another safe place.
It also advised households to relocate valuables, important documents, food supplies, and other essentials to higher levels where possible, while giving priority to evacuating children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
The FFS warned against drinking or using floodwater due to possible contamination, and said people should not walk or drive through floodwaters, noting that even shallow water can be very dangerous.
Residents were further urged to contact the Federal Fire Service or other emergency responders immediately when flooding occurs, and to return to affected homes only after authorities have declared the area safe.
Anas restated the FCT Command's dedication to responding quickly to emergencies and protecting lives and property throughout the Territory.
He asked residents to work with emergency responders, follow safety instructions, and promptly report flood incidents and other emergencies to the appropriate authorities.
Federal Fire Service FCT Emergency Number: 0803 200 3557.
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