By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (ESEMA) to intensify assessment of communities affected by the recent flooding and coordinate emergency relief and rehabilitation measures for displaced residents.
The directive followed the flooding that swept through Akaeze in Ivo Local Government Area and other parts of the state, destroying houses, farmlands, crops, personal belongings and other sources of livelihood.
The state government, in a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Ikeuwa Omebeh, expressed sympathy with the affected families and communities, assuring them of appropriate government intervention.
Omebeh said the directive was given by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru as part of measures to address the immediate humanitarian consequences of the disaster and support affected residents in rebuilding their livelihoods.
“The Ebonyi State Government has expressed its deep concern and sympathy to residents of Akaeze in Ivo Local Government Area and other communities across the state affected by the recent flooding,” the commissioner said.
He said the government was working with relevant federal emergency-management institutions, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to secure complementary intervention and support for the affected communities.
According to him, the state’s response would be guided by verified assessments of the extent of damage and the needs of the affected residents.
The flooding, which occurred following heavy rainfall, reportedly submerged several houses and farmlands in Akaeze, leaving families displaced and causing extensive damage to property and agricultural assets.
The Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agency had earlier confirmed that no life was lost in the incident and said it had commenced an assessment of the damage.
Omebeh said the government would not relent in addressing the immediate humanitarian needs of the victims while simultaneously pursuing measures to restore livelihoods and strengthen community resilience against future climate-related and environmental emergencies.
He urged residents affected by the flood to remain calm and cooperate with emergency officials conducting assessments and coordinating relief operations.
The commissioner also cautioned residents against returning prematurely to flood-prone areas or occupying buildings that may have been structurally compromised until the relevant authorities certify them safe.
