The Benue State Government has announced proactive measures to address the rising water levels of the River Benue, following the opening of the Lagdo Dam in neighbouring Cameroon and flood predictions by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) for 2024.
In response to the impending flood disaster, the state government has opened Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the state.
This decision was made by the state’s Flood Disaster Preparedness, Mitigation, and Response Team during a meeting in Makurdi.
NiMET recently warned that several LGAs in Benue State, including Kwande, Katsina-Ala, Logo, Makurdi, Gwer-West, Agatu, Guma, and Apa, could be severely affected by flooding as a result of the dam’s release.
Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, confirmed that IDP camps have been established to shelter those likely to be displaced by the floods.
He listed the camps’ locations, which include the International Market in Makurdi, Suswan Thank You LGEA Primary School in Wurukum, Akume Atongo Stadium in Katsina-Ala, and RCM Primary School in Logo.
Kunde stressed the urgency for residents living in flood-prone areas to evacuate for their own safety.
He noted that the state government is fully prepared to manage the expected influx of displaced individuals.
James Iorpuu, acting Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), affirmed the agency’s readiness to cater to those affected by the floods.
He revealed that the agency would supply both food and non-food items to displaced persons and flood victims.
Furthermore, BSEMA has sought additional logistical support, including five flying boats, from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to aid in rescue and relief efforts.
In addition, Commissioner Kunde called for comprehensive documentation of women and children in the affected flood-prone areas, emphasising the need for the state’s Ministry of Health to be fully prepared to respond to any health-related challenges.
International organisations have also pledged support. Mrs Mediatrix Barendayo, the Team Leader from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), assured the Benue State Government of continued assistance.
Similarly, Sally Okpaje, Team Lead for the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), committed the agency’s support to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to mitigate the impact of the floods and alleviate the suffering of displaced persons.
As water levels continue to rise and with the potential for widespread flooding, the Benue State Government remains focused on safeguarding its citizens and providing necessary relief in collaboration with international and federal partners.
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