Anambra moves to tackle flood menace, tasks Council bosses to intensify sensitization… 

Following looming danger of flooding from the River Benue, Anambra State government has set up a Special Flood Committee, led by the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, as contingency plans and risk management mechanisms in anticipation of the flood menace in 10 local councils in the state.

Governor Charles Soludo, in a statement, through his Chief press secretary, Christian Aburime, advised citizens residing in usually affected councils, including Ogbaru, Ayamelum, Anambra East and West, Onitsha North and South, Awka North, Idemili South, Ekwusigo, and Ihiala to relocate without further delay to avert a recurrence of last year’s disaster.

He said elderly citizens, women and children would be especially helped to move to safer Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps, along with their properly secured assets, household items, farm produce, livestock among others.

The governor said transition council chairmen in the affected councils have been mandated to link up with all the churches, markets and other high-concentration points within the flood-prone areas to dispense the right information.

According to him, the Ministry of Information has also been broadcasting the impending flood to alert people in affected councils.

“The state Emergency Management agency (SEMA) has sent early warnings to all the people living in Riverside and flood-prone areas to immediately relocate to the state IDP camps provided by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

“And should there be a need for emergency services when the flood arrives, the state’s emergency response teams are on high alert and are equipped to provide immediate assistance in case of flooding.

“Families are to be supportive of one another, while communities and neighbours should work together to offer assistance to those in need of evacuating or preparing for the flood.

“Ndi Anambra are advised to keep calm and stay updated with accurate information from official sources to avoid misinformation and confusion,” he added.

Aburime also assured Ndi Anambra that Governor Soludo remains committed to their safety and well-being at all times.

Recall that last year’s flooding served as a painful reminder of the destructive power of these floods, as many communities in Anambra State experienced unprecedented destruction and losses.