Many farmers have begun harvesting their crops prematurely In Anambra State due to the imminent threat of flooding. Rising water levels have already submerged farmlands in various communities, prompting urgent action.
The Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) Paul Odenigbo provided an update on the flood situation on Tuesday, revealing that the water levels are expected to continue rising. This increase is partly due to activities in neighboring countries that contribute additional floodwaters through river channels into Nigeria.
Odenigbo urged residents in riverine areas to be vigilant and relocate to higher ground as water levels rise. He emphasized that the state government, under the guidance of the flood response committee led by the deputy governor, has made arrangements to support displaced individuals. This includes preparing and maintaining holding camps across the state, which are currently being cleaned and fumigated to ensure they are habitable.
The Executive Secretary praised the Nigerian Government and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for their support but also stressed the need for further action. He recommended the Nigerian government undertake river dredging or construct dams as a long-term solution to mitigate annual flooding disasters.
Designated IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps have been established in several local government areas, including Ayamelum, Anambra East, Ogbaru, Onitsha South, Onitsha North, Awka North, Ihiala, and Ekwusigo, to accommodate those displaced by the floods.
