By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
Victims of the devastating July 28 flood in Yola, Adamawa State, have urged the Federal Government to investigate a mining company allegedly responsible for releasing excess water from its dam on the day of the disaster.
The flood affected around 4,000 households, claimed 23 lives, and left many hospitalized.
Speaking to journalists, residents accused the company, operating in Bolle, of deliberately opening the dam, while alleging that state officials shielded the firm from accountability.
“We have video evidence of water gushing from the company’s fabricated dam. Yet, officials from the State Emergency Management Agency and Ministry of Environment dismissed our concerns,” said Musa Yakubu, one of the victims.
Another resident, Babayola, warned that continued inaction could spark unrest.
“The flood is directly linked to mining-induced terrain destabilisation.
“Ongoing operations of this company threaten farmland and forest reserves and could trigger further conflicts,” he said.
Concerns about health and environmental risks were also raised.
Hajara Abubakar noted that floodwaters, possibly containing chemicals, entered residential areas and could contaminate public water sources.
Sunday Isaac questioned the state government’s credibility, citing past incidents of expired food aid distribution, and called for an independent federal investigation.
In response, Adamawa State Commissioner for Environment, Mohammed Sadiq, defended the company, saying it operates legally with full documentation.
He added that the dam has an engineered spillway designed for safe water discharge and argued that the volume released on July 28 could not have caused such widespread flooding.
Victims continue to appeal to the Federal Ministry of Environment and international regulators for intervention to ensure transparency, accountability, and prevention of future disasters.
