The death toll from the recent catastrophic flood that devastated several communities in Adamawa State has risen to 25, sparking outrage and renewed calls for accountability from local residents and community stakeholders.
Abubakat Lawan Uba, a prominent resident of the affected area and former governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has publicly accused Chinese mining operators of playing a direct role in the disaster. According to Uba, unregulated mining activities and the sudden release of excess water from a reservoir controlled by the miners led to the deadly flooding.
Over the weekend, Uba took members of the press to a mining site at Bole Hills, where he alleged that water discharged from the site overwhelmed nearby communities.
“This flood was avoidable. It occurred because the miners released excess water without proper safety measures,” Uba said. “We are demanding full compensation for the victims. If our demands are ignored, we will pursue legal action against the Chinese nationals and their employers.”
In a video that has since gone viral, Uba issued a strong warning to the mining company, insisting on swift compensation for all affected families and communities. He also urged the Federal Government to launch an immediate investigation into the mining operations in the area.
The flood, which struck neighborhoods including Shagari Low-Cost, Sabon Pegi, and Yolde-Pate, caused widespread destruction—destroying homes, displacing hundreds, and leaving many injured. Emergency response teams continue to work around the clock as cleanup and recovery efforts intensify.
Uba stressed the need for stricter oversight of mining activities in Adamawa State and across Nigeria, warning that continued environmental neglect by foreign firms could lead to even more severe consequences.
“We cannot allow foreign companies to destroy our land and livelihoods without accountability,” he said. “This must serve as a wake-up call for regulatory agencies and all levels of government.”
