THE Kogi State Government has urgently appealed to the Federal Government for assistance as flooding has displaced 70 communities in various parts of the state.
Deputy Governor Salifu Oyibo made this request during an inspection of the Edeha community in Kogi Local Government Area, which has been severely affected by the floods.
As the Chairman of the 2024 Flood Disaster Response Committee established by the State Government, Oyibo noted that despite the government’s preparedness for flooding, the current situation in Edeha and surrounding areas exceeds what the state can manage on its own.
“It is clear that the current circumstances are beyond the capacity of the Kogi State Government; we cannot handle this alone,” he stated.
“Over 70 communities have been impacted by the floods, with thousands of homes submerged. The extent of property damage, including farmland, has yet to be fully determined. Therefore, we urgently need the Federal Government’s intervention in the affected regions.”
Oyibo expressed relief that there have been no reported fatalities, as most residents from the affected communities have relocated to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps established by the state.
He remains hopeful that the state will do its utmost to alleviate the suffering of those affected, highlighting that necessary measures have been implemented at the 48 IDP camps set up throughout the state, including two in Kotonkarfe.
The Chief of the Edeha community, Abdullahi Isah, lauded the state government for its swift response and echoed the deputy governor’s call for assistance.
He reported that approximately 70 to 80 communities have been impacted by the floods, which have become a recurring issue.
“We are grateful for the Deputy Governor’s visit today, but we urgently ask the Federal Government to assist us. We have all relocated to higher ground, and many of our people are currently in IDP camps.
“We appeal to the Federal Government, corporate entities, international organizations, and individuals for support. We recognize that the state government is compassionate, but they cannot manage this crisis alone. We truly need help,” he urged.