Published: October 29, 2024
By Chinwendu Eugene
Residents of coastal communities in Delta State are reeling from devastating floods that have ravaged 11 communities following the surge in River Niger’s water level and adjoining creeks.
Affected Communities:
- Abala-Obodo
- Abala-Uno
- Abala-Oshimili
- Onya
- Ase
- Asaba-Ase
- Ibedeni
- Umuoru
- Adia-Obiaka (Ndokwa East Local Government Area)
- Uduophori
- Patani (Patani Local Government Area headquarters)
Sources attribute the flooding to incessant heavy downpours and systematic water releases from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, causing the River Niger to overflow its banks.
Displacement and Destruction
The floods have displaced residents, destroyed farmlands, and damaged crops. Clinton Omokaro, an Ase community indigene, described the situation:
“The flood has cut off our community. Although the water level is stable now, the access road between Aviara and Araya is submerged. We’re forced to take an alternative, costlier route.”
Ifeanyi Isaac Ogbolu, Youth President of Abala clan, lamented:
“This year’s flood has gone beyond control, damaging lives and properties heavily. We appeal to the government to provide relief and support.”
In a letter to Delta State House of Assembly lawmaker Hon. Emeka Osamuta, Ogbolu emphasized the need for government intervention:
“We require succor, relocation to safer areas, and empowerment to restart by 2025. Floods and droughts have caused immense harm, and the government must mitigate damages.”
Ogbolu urged authorities to:
- Build flood- and drought-resistant infrastructure
- Establish effective disaster management systems
- Promote sustainable farming practices
- Implement reforestation and green cover increase
“I request urgent action to address these issues and protect lives and livelihoods,” he concluded.
