The Edo State Government has issued a call to action for residents living in lowland and riverine regions within the state. This advisory comes in response to the anticipated flooding resulting from the controlled release of water into the River Niger from the Lagdo Dam by Cameroonian authorities.
The communities directly affected include Agenebode in the Etsako East Local Government Area (LGA), Anegbete in the Etsako Central LGA, and Illushi in the Esan South East LGA. Additionally, residents in other riverine areas situated within Ikpoba Okha LGA, Ovia North-East LGA, and Ovia South-West LGA are advised to take heed.
According to a statement by Chris Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, the Edo State Government has been apprised of the imminent release of regulated volumes of water into the River Benue. This measure is necessitated by the ongoing heavy rainfall that has led to flooding.
Residents residing in low-lying and riverine areas, including those in Agenebode, Anegbete, and Ilushi, are hereby cautioned to exercise vigilance and consider relocating to higher ground. The same precaution extends to the regions of Ikpoba Okha, Ovia North-East, and Ovia South-West, where residents are advised to remain on alert.
Recognizing the inevitability of this situation, the Edo State Government is committed to offering assistance to those who may be displaced from their homes due to the escalating water levels stemming from the River Benue’s overflow. Adequate preparations have been made to ensure the readiness of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, alongside thorough briefings and awareness initiatives aimed at the affected residents.
