By Egbunu Umar Muhammed, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Government has ordered the temporary closure of Sandaji Hotel in Lafia following alleged violations of environmental regulations amid flooding triggered by hours of heavy rainfall.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Princess Margret Elayo, ordered the closure during an inspection of flood-affected areas in the state capital, saying the measure was necessary to prevent further damage and protect lives and property around the hotel.
Elayo said the prolonged rainfall had caused flooding that submerged residential buildings, shops and parts of the hotel, raising concerns about the safety of people and properties within the area.
According to her, the inspection followed reports of flooding across parts of Lafia, with initial findings indicating that some structures had obstructed natural waterways and drainage channels.
“I have responded swiftly to the reports of flooding in the capital city due to the long hours of rainfall and discovered some buildings that blocked waterways,” she said.
The commissioner stressed that the government would not allow activities capable of worsening flooding or putting residents at risk to continue unchecked.
She warned residents and business owners against dumping refuse in drainage channels, stressing that blocked waterways could aggravate flooding during periods of intense rainfall.
Elayo also cautioned against constructing buildings or other structures on waterways and drainage routes, urging residents to comply with environmental regulations.
She advised households living in flood-prone communities to temporarily move to safer locations until the rains subside, particularly in areas already affected by rising floodwaters.
The commissioner said the government’s intervention was aimed at preventing avoidable loss of lives and property as the rainy season intensifies.
The development comes amid warnings of increased flood risks across parts of Nasarawa State.
The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has identified Lafia among locations in the state considered vulnerable to severe flooding in 2026.
The state government therefore urged residents to take flood warnings seriously, keep drainage channels clear and avoid activities that could obstruct the free flow of stormwater.