Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has called on residents in flood affected areas to relocate to higher grounds and the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps established by the state government to avoid casualties from the ongoing flooding.
The Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Hon. Kingsley Uwagbale, on Wednesday, stated that due to the current flood situation, the state government is advising residents not to wait for a crisis, but to move to safer areas prepared to ensure their safety.
He said, “The governor has asked us to warn the people about the flooding, which is now present. He urged those in the vulnerable regions of the state, including Etsako East, Etsako Central, Esan South East, Ubiaja, and Illushi, to take heed. These areas will experience flooding, and the residents are strongly advised to relocate to the IDP camps already prepared for them.”
“The governor has also directed the various local government councils to ensure that people vacate the affected areas. They have been mobilised to begin the process, with a local emergency committee already in place.
Other emergency response teams such as NEMA, SEMA, the Red Cross, and the police, along with other stakeholders, have also been mobilised.”
“We are urging our people not to wait until the flood hits them. Their lives and safety are paramount. We encourage them to move to the safer areas prepared for them. Residents can contact the Edo State emergency hotline, 739, which is operational and can be reached from anywhere within the state.”
The governor added that the state already has statutory camps that can accommodate those displaced by flooding, and it is prepared to establish emergency camps within two to three weeks to house affected individuals until the flood subsides. “We have statutory camps that were originally built to shelter those willing to relocate. Additionally, we are in the process of constructing a new camp in Ubiaja, and we already have two in Agenebode and a large camp and warehouse in Ogumere.”
“We have been sensitising the public for the last three to five months since we were informed about the impending flood. While many have already relocated, some individuals are still at risk. We appeal to them to move to the safer grounds provided, including the camps.”
“We are capable of setting up emergency camps that can accommodate people for at least two to three weeks, providing shelter until the floodwaters recede and they can return to their homes.”
Regarding support and relief materials, Uwagbale mentioned that the governor has been in communication with the chairmen of the affected local government areas to ensure the safety of the people.
“The governor has discussed the provision of relief materials with the local government chairmen, and over N300 million has already been released as of today, in addition to the emergency funds allocated to ensure a smooth response.”
“Governor Obaseki has mandated us to ensure the safety of Edo State residents at risk of flooding. We are to report any further requirements to him. The situation is under control, with ample funding, relief materials, and arrangements for the relocation of residents to the camps until the rains subside,” he stated.
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