Governor Umar Bago Cancels Sallah Celebrations In Niger State Due To Mokwa Flood

Niger State Governor Umar Bago has cancelled all Eid-el-Kabir celebrations across the state to honour those who lost their lives in the recent Mokwa flood disaster.

The flood, which hit Mokwa Local Government Area on the night of May 29, claimed over 200 lives, destroyed hundreds of homes, and displaced more than 3,000 people.

It also wiped out three bridges, making it difficult for emergency workers to reach the affected areas.

In a statement signed by Abubakar Usman, Secretary to the State Government, Governor Bago directed that only quiet, minimal Eid activities be observed this year across all emirates in the state.

The Niger governor suspended popular Sallah traditions like the “hawan bariki”, “durbar”, and other festivities.

Usman explained that the governor’s decision was made out of respect for the victims and to allow time for mourning, reflection, and prayer.

He described the disaster as one of the worst the state has seen in decades, with many families left grieving and struggling to rebuild their lives.

Governor Bago urged residents to use the Eid period to pray for those who died and show kindness to the survivors who have been badly affected.

“Abubakar Usman emphasized that this decision was taken as a mark of respect for the victims of the tragic incident and to allow for a period of mourning, prayer and reflection,” the statement reads.

“The Mokwa flood, described as one of the worst in decades, has left families bereaved, houses and livelihoods destroyed.

“The governor urged citizens to use the occasion to pray for the departed souls and engage in acts of charity for the affected communities.”

The “durbar”, one of the suspended events, is a colourful cultural parade usually held during Eid, featuring traditional rulers and horsemen in procession after prayers.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has approved the release of ₦2 billion to help rebuild homes destroyed by recent flooding in Mokwa, Niger State.