The Anambra State government has activated 27 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in anticipation of severe flooding as the water levels of the River Niger continue to rise. Seven local government areas (LGAs) identified as being at high risk include Ayamelum, Anambra East, Anambra West, Ogbaru, Ekwusigo, Ihiala, and Awka North.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo announced that the state is taking significant measures to prepare for the expected flooding, collaborating with the federal government to mitigate the potential damage.
“We are dealing with our environment and have received all manner of warnings,” Soludo stated.
“We are preparing to deal with the expected massive flooding, and Anambra is usually among the most badly affected.”
Reflecting on past experiences, the governor recalled the devastating floods that occurred two years ago, which inundated eight LGAs, causing damage worth hundreds of billions of naira and displacing hundreds of thousands of people.
“This year, we have been warned, so we are preparing, and it is going to cost the state a humongous amount of money,” Soludo added.
To address the situation, the federal government has provided 24,000 bags of rice, which are being distributed to the affected wards and LGAs at a rate of seventy bags per ward. The state government is also marshaling its resources, which will require billions of naira, to provide further assistance.
Meanwhile, residents in some riverine communities, particularly in the Ayamelum LGA, have begun evacuating to higher ground.
The Traditional Ruler of the Omor Community, Igwe Chidume Oranu, reported that those affected are moving with their essential belongings to safer areas.
“We are taking steps to advise our people living in flood-prone farm settlements to vacate the area and go to the upland immediately,” he said.
The Royal Father also urged residents to harvest their crops promptly to avoid losses.
The government’s proactive approach aims to minimize the impact of the anticipated floods, ensuring the safety and well-being of the state’s residents.