Flooding: State Bureau Urges Deltans to Brace for Worsening Rainfall

…Government to provide medical care, camps, and relief for affected communities*

As Delta State prepares for worsening rainfall, compounded by the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, the State Orientation and Communications Bureau has urged residents to brace for the challenges of impending floods.

Speaking on public affairs programs at Voice of Delta FM and Trend FM in Asaba on Wednesday, the Director-General of the Bureau, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, revealed that the National Flood Warning Systems Centre (NFWSC), under the Federal Ministry of Environment, had predicted heavy rainfall in 15 states, including Delta, between September 24th and 28th, which may result in severe flooding.

He emphasized the need for residents in areas such as Abraka, Agbor, Asaba, Umuakwata, Aboh, Ozoro, Oleh, Otu-Jeremi, and other coastal communities, particularly those in flood-prone zones, to temporarily relocate to higher ground, ensuring they take along valuable property, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Dr. Oghenesivbe, who is also a member of the State Flood Disaster Management Committee, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, noted that the state is finalizing preparations for Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in key locations such as Ozoro, Otu-Jeremi, Patani, Kwale, and Asaba. He assured that the government will provide essential services, including healthcare through the Ministry of Health, electricity, and sanitary facilities at the IDP camps, as directed by Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

The Director-General also confirmed that the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), will work closely with the State Flood Disaster Management Committee to assist displaced residents in coastal areas. NEMA has pledged to offer helicopter airlifts for those in remote locations who may face difficulty accessing higher ground.

“Heavy rainfall has been predicted by relevant government agencies, in addition to the release of water from the Lagdo Dam by Cameroonian authorities,” Oghenesivbe said.

“It is crucial that residents in at-risk areas and coastal communities immediately prepare for the challenges ahead by relocating to higher ground and taking refuge in IDP camps set up by the state government. The exact locations of these camps will be announced through the media in due course.”

Governor Oborevwori has mandated the committee, as well as relevant ministries, departments, and agencies, to ensure that essential services are provided at the IDP camps. These services will include healthcare, security, electricity, sanitation, and food supplies. Communities that are less affected by the flooding will also receive palliatives to alleviate the impact.

“We strongly urge those likely to be affected to relocate immediately, safeguarding their valuable possessions and perishable items. It’s a time to show solidarity and support one another. The government cannot do it alone. We call on companies to fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by partnering with the state government, caregivers, and organizations to assist displaced individuals.

“Governor Oborevwori cares deeply, and we, as citizens, must rise to the occasion by extending a helping hand to our neighbors,” Oghenesivbe said.

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