Another Trouble For Kogi As Flood Ravages Lokoja, Residents Displaced While Properties Are Destroyed

Amid financial challenges, the Kogi state government is to face issues of flash flood which displaced residents and destroyed properties on Thursday, September 7, 2017.

The incident is happening days after flood destroyed properties and rendered about 110,000 homeless in neighboring Benue state.

Governor Yahaya Bello is currently asking residents affected by the flood to leave to safety while those in other areas prone to tragedy should be evacuated.

Petra Akinti, the chief press secretary to Governor Bello, said the government was doing everything to protect lives.

“We wish to implement this immediate evacuation to forestall further loss of valuables and possibly lives in our dear state.

“We are thankful for the cooperation of all the security agencies, local and state government emergency workers, all other stakeholders and the good people of Kogi state for helping to minimize the effect of the flash flood. You are the true heroes of this event.

“We also wish to call for the understanding of all travellers, both drivers and commuters, who use this road.

“The road is a major artery connecting the Northern and southern of Nigeria, hence it is critical that we navigate the road carefully during this period and respect the men and women in uniform trying to keep traffic flowing as quickly as possible.

“Relief camps have been set up in the affected areas for temporarily displaced persons to take advantage of.

“Relief materials have also begun to arrive the locations. Donors and volunteers are also welcome,” she said.

Speaking also, Rosemary Osikoya, the environment and natural resources commissioner, said her ministry had enlightened the people three months ago concerning the incident.

She however said no life was lost in the flooding incident.

The old woman, currently taking shelter at a displaced persons camp in Makurdi, noted that the flood is the third she experienced in her lifetime.