Kano Deputy Gov, Ex-IG’s Homes Hit by Flood in Abuja
The homes of Kano State Deputy Governor Murtala Garo and former Inspector-General of Police Solomon Arase have reportedly been affected by flooding in Abuja’s Maitama Extension.
The flooding occurred after heavy rainfall in the Federal Capital Territory, with residents blaming the worsening situation on the obstruction and covering of a major canal that previously served as a route for stormwater.
Residents told SaharaReporters that the canal was allegedly covered to allow construction activities in the area. They claimed that an estate linked to Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Federal Capital Territory, was built around the affected area.
One resident alleged that as many as 14 duplexes were constructed on what was previously a green area and canal corridor. The resident argued that blocking the water channel had contributed significantly to the flooding and increased the risk to homes and families in the neighbourhood.
The affected properties reportedly include the Abuja residence of Kano Deputy Governor Murtala Garo and the residence of retired Inspector-General of Police Solomon Arase.
Residents have also criticised the Federal Capital Territory Administration, accusing authorities of allowing drainage channels, waterways and green areas to be altered or developed.
The allegations come amid wider concerns over flooding across Abuja. Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the FCT in the Senate, has also criticised construction on green areas, flood channels, gullies and flood plains, saying such developments are increasing the capital’s vulnerability to flooding.
Kingibe said the problem becomes more serious during heavy rainfall because Abuja’s natural drainage routes have been narrowed or blocked in some areas. She said she had previously written to relevant FCT agencies, including Development Control, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board and the Federal Capital Development Authority, over the issue.
The flooding has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of Abuja’s master plan and for authorities to protect designated drainage corridors and green areas from unauthorised development.
The allegations concerning Senator Bomai’s alleged connection to the development have not been independently established in the reports reviewed. They should therefore be treated as claims by residents pending an official response or further investigation.
