URGENT FLOOD ALERT: Kiri Dam Spillways Opened, Communities Warned to Evacuate

 

Numan, Adamawa – 16 July 2025

The Site Manager of the Upper Benue River Basin (Kiri Dam, Adamawa State) has issued an urgent flood warning to communities downstream following the opening of the dam’s spillways. 

In an emergency directive, communities in flood-prone areas across Numan Local Government are advised to prepare for immediate evacuation and relocate to higher ground. The warning was formally communicated to the Executive Chairman of Numan LGA, Hon. Innocent Koto, who is tasked with disseminating the alert to vulnerable residents.  

"The dam is in a critical spillage condition due to excessive water volume," stated the Site Manager. "Releasing water through the spillways is a necessary safety measure. We urge all at-risk communities to stay alert and move to higher terrain without delay."  

The abrupt opening of the spillways poses a significant flood threat to low-lying settlements along the Benue River basin. Residents are warned that floodwaters could rise rapidly, risking lives, property, and infrastructure.  

Residents are required to:  

1. Evacuate immediately if located in riverine or flood-prone zones.  

2. Relocate essential belongings, livestock, and vulnerable persons (children, elderly, disabled) to designated safe areas.  

3. Avoid riverbanks and low-lying terrain until further notice.  

4. Monitor official updates from the Numan LGA Chairman’s office.  

Hon. Innocent Koto, Executive Chairman of Numan LGA, emphasized the gravity of the situation: "This is not a drill. I implore all communities in the alert zone to act now. Prioritize your safety—do not wait until waters rise."  

The Kiri Dam management confirmed the spillway release is unavoidable to maintain structural integrity. Further updates will be issued as the situation evolves.  

Aaron Isaac, Hicia News