Flood kills security operative, teenager in Yobe

The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) says a security operative and a teenager have died after flooding triggered by heavy rainfall swept through parts of Damaturu, the state capital.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the agency identified the victims as Isa Haruna, 38, a security personnel popularly known as Mallam Matari, and 18-year-old Abba Kyari.

The agency said the pair drowned in the Pompomari area after a torrential downpour in the early hours of Monday caused widespread flooding across Malari, Pompomari and neighbouring communities.

SEMA said its search and rescue team, working alongside the Yobe State Fire Service, was mobilised after receiving distress calls from residents.

However, the agency said both victims were recovered dead, and that their bodies were evacuated to the nearest hospital.

SEMA warned residents to remain vigilant as the rainy season continues, noting that people living in low-lying and flood-prone communities are particularly at risk.

The agency advised residents to avoid walking, playing or driving through flooded roads, drainage channels and waterways, warning that floodwaters could be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.

SEMA also urged parents and guardians to keep children away from rivers, streams, culverts and floodwaters during the ongoing school holiday to prevent avoidable tragedies.

The agency appealed to residents to promptly report flood-related emergencies or missing persons, clear blocked drainages where it is safe to do so, monitor weather updates and heed early warning alerts, and relocate to higher ground whenever flooding occurs.