Flood submerges over 60 Ibaji communities in Kogi
Flooding situation in Kogi State, particularly in the Ibaji Local Government Area, has reached alarming levels, with over 60 communities submerged.
This annual disaster has become a significant concern for residents and local authorities alike. The Ibaji area is known to be one of the worst-hit regions during flood seasons due to its geographical location along the banks of the River Niger.
According to reports, almost all communities within Ibaji have been affected, leading to massive displacement of residents and destruction of properties.
The chairperson of the Ibaji Flood Plains Multipurpose Cooperative Society (IFPMPCS), Prof Joy Ede Ukoje, highlighted that the scale of flooding has surpassed what the state government can manage effectively. She emphasized the urgent need for intervention from both state and federal governments to address this crisis.
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The flooding has not only displaced families but also devastated agricultural lands. Farmers in Ibaji have reported significant losses, with crops such as yam, cassava, and sugar cane being destroyed by rising waters. This loss poses a severe threat to food security in the region and undermines the livelihoods of many families who depend on agriculture for their income.
Government response
In response to this ongoing crisis, Kogi State’s government has established internally displaced persons (IDP) camps across several flood-prone local government areas. They have also opened alternative routes to ensure that transportation remains viable despite flooding conditions. However, officials acknowledge that their resources are stretched thin and they require additional support from federal agencies and private organizations.
Call for action
Prof Ukoje called for immediate action including creating a disaster relief fund specifically aimed at supporting affected communities. She urged collaboration between various stakeholders including governmental bodies and non-governmental organizations to provide necessary assistance and develop long-term strategies for flood management.
Furthermore, there is an appeal for N-HYPPADEC (National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission) to expedite plans for community shelters and engage local cooperative societies in distributing relief supplies effectively.
