The Kogi State Government has opened a 5-kilometer alternate route in Nyamanyama Village, along the Ganaja-Ajaokuta Road, as a precautionary measure in case the main road becomes impassable due to flooding.
This initiative, led by the Kogi State Flood Disaster Response Team, aims to ease potential disruptions for motorists as floodwaters near dangerous levels.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had earlier instructed the Flood Disaster Response Team to create an alternate road to prevent hardship for motorists in the event of flooding on the main Ganaja road.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring the safety and comfort of travelers, even amid adverse weather conditions.
Deputy Governor Joel Salifu Oyibo, who chairs the Flood Disaster Response Team, confirmed that the team swiftly acted on the governor’s directive to open the alternate route.
He commended the quick response, which he believes will alleviate the suffering of commuters.
Kogi State Commissioner for Works, Mohammed Yusuf, also a member of the Response Team, expressed satisfaction with the progress of work on the new route, describing it as evidence of “responsive governance” under Governor Ododo.
Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, speaking after inspecting the project on Sunday, warned of the worsening flood situation.
He highlighted the importance of the Ganaja-Ajaokuta Road as a key link to the South East and South South regions, used by hundreds of thousands of commuters daily.
“Over the years, commuters have faced severe challenges on this road during flood periods. This alternative route is a lifeline,” Fanwo said.
“The flood is already causing widespread devastation. Properties worth billions have been lost, houses and farmlands washed away.
Only 25 per cent of Ibaji Local Government is above water, with the rest submerged. Other areas like Ajaokuta, Gegu, Edeha, and Kupa District are also counting their losses.”
Fanwo called on the Federal Government to intervene, stressing that Kogi State’s resources are overstretched as it strives to manage the crisis.
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