Mokwa Flood Victims Petition Police Over Alleged Diversion of N5 Billion in Relief Funds

A group representing victims of the 2025 Mokwa flood disaster has filed a formal petition with the Nigeria Police Force, calling for an immediate investigation into the alleged misappropriation of more than N5 billion in cash and relief supplies.

The petition, submitted to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja, claims that significant donations intended for survivors in Niger State were diverted, mismanaged, or distributed to individuals who were not affected by the disaster.

Represented by legal counsel, the petitioners including direct victims and community representatives assert that over a year after the catastrophic flooding, many survivors remain displaced and living in makeshift conditions. According to the report, widespread concerns have emerged regarding the lack of transparency in how the substantial aid package, contributed by federal and state governments, humanitarian organizations, and private donors, was handled.

The petitioners allege that the relief funds, managed primarily through the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) and local government authorities, were not utilized effectively. They further claim that the beneficiary lists for cash disbursements were compromised, alleging that the names of local government staff and public officials appeared among those who received payments, while many genuine flood victims received little to no assistance.

Additionally, the petition highlights a lack of progress on promised housing projects intended to relocate those displaced by the flood. Despite the substantial capital raised, residents report that there has been no visible development, leaving many families to struggle without adequate shelter, food, or financial support.

The legal representatives have requested that the police conduct a comprehensive audit of all donations, including both cash and food commodities. They are urging investigators to scrutinize the disbursement process, identify those responsible for the alleged diversions, and ensure that remaining funds are redirected to the intended beneficiaries.

Local tensions in the area have reportedly been mounting, especially as residents face the return of seasonal flood risks. The petitioners have pledged to cooperate fully with the authorities to ensure accountability for the alleged corruption and to secure justice for those still suffering from the aftermath of the 2025 disaster.