Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has called for immediate federal intervention to assist thousands of residents displaced by severe flooding in Delta North, Delta State. During a Senate session on Thursday, October 24, Senator Nwoko passionately urged swift action to alleviate the suffering of communities that have been submerged by floodwaters.
The affected areas span Oshimili-South, Ndokwa West, and Ndokwa East Local Government Areas, with communities such as Oko-Amakom, Okpai, Aboh, Abala-Uno, and others being heavily impacted. Homes, farmlands, and schools have been destroyed as the River Niger and its surrounding creeks overflow their banks, forcing residents to seek refuge in makeshift shelters, schools, and elevated areas.
“Residents are facing desperate conditions, with many displaced families sleeping outdoors or in temporary shelters, waiting for help. The situation is dire,” Senator Nwoko stated during his motion. He highlighted the urgent need for federal assistance to provide food, clean water, medical supplies, and temporary shelter for the displaced residents.
In response, the Senate has called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant bodies to act swiftly. Senator Nwoko’s motion outlined several key requests:
Immediate Emergency Relief: The Senate urged the Federal Government, through NEMA, to deliver emergency relief to the flood-affected communities, including essential supplies such as food, clean water, and medical aid.
Establishment of IDP Camps: The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development was called upon to establish fully equipped internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in the flood-hit areas, ensuring displaced persons have safe and secure accommodations.
Read also: We won’t abandon flood victims – Delta Govt
Long-Term Flood Prevention: Senator Nwoko also pushed for the Federal Ministry of Works to consider dredging the River Niger and constructing embankments along flood-prone areas as a permanent solution to recurring floods.
Urgent Environmental Assessment: The Senate Committee on Environment has been tasked with conducting an urgent assessment of the affected areas and providing recommendations for a lasting solution to the flooding that continues to threaten the welfare and development of Delta North communities.
This Senate motion is a significant step toward addressing the flood crisis, with the hope that immediate action will prevent further loss of lives and property. Senator Nwoko’s call for long-term flood control measures underscores the need for sustainable solutions to protect vulnerable communities.
