The Nasarawa State Government has ordered the temporary closure of Sandaji Hotel, Lafia, due to non-compliance with environmental standards.
Princess Margret Elayo, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, closed down the hotel on Thursday in Lafia while inspecting flooding that affected the area due to heavy downpour that lasted over six hours.
The Commissioner emphasised that the decision became necessary to protect any loss of lives and property around the location of the hotel.
She explained that the heavy downpour that lasted for six hours had led to flooding that submerged houses, shops and the hotel and the government needed to act urgently to avert escalation of the situation.
“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 warned members of the public to desist from disposing of waste in drainage around their houses and shops as well as not to build in waterways to avoid causing flooding.
She also appealed to households residing in flood-prone areas to temporarily relocate to safer zones until the rain subsides.
It could be recalled that the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has identified Lafia as one of the places in the state that are likely to face severe flooding in 2026. (NAN).