ABUJA (Sundiata Post) – The House of Representatives has invited relevant agencies of government to reveal measure put in place to safeguard lives and property ahead of predicted flood in the country.
The agencies are the Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
This summon is sequel to the adoption of a motion by Rep. Sesi Whingan (APC-Lagos state) at plenary on Wednesday.
Moving the motion earlier, Whingan said that the Federal Government predicted five days of heavy rainfall, which may lead to flooding in 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He said that the identified locations most at risk of severe flooding include communities along the flood plains of Rivers Donga, Benue, and Ogun, in states such as Osun, Delta, Cross River, Anambra, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Kebbi, among others.
The rep said that the rainfall and potential flooding which were predicted from October 14 and 18, 2024, are threatening both life and property.
“The predicted heavy rainfall and resulting floods could have devastating impacts on vulnerable communities, leading to displacement, loss of property, destruction of infrastructure, and potential loss of lives.
”If adequate precautionary mechanisms are not put in place to protect citizens in these areas.
“Despite early warnings, there may not be sufficient proactive measures such as timely evacuations, provision of temporary shelters, and support systems for affected communities.
“This increases the risk of severe humanitarian consequences if these warnings are not addressed through urgent action.
“Flooding is a recurring issue in Nigeria, often exacerbated by inadequate drainage systems, lack of preparedness, and insufficient coordination among agencies responsible for disaster management,” he said
He said that it was crucial that relevant authorities immediately implement strategies to mitigate the predicted disaster, including evacuation plans, provision of relief materials, and ensuring post-flood recovery efforts are coordinated effectively.
The house urged on the Federal Ministry of Environment and state governments to activate evacuation protocols for communities along flood plains.
The lawmakers urged them to ensure that affected populations have access to temporary shelters, medical services, and other forms of support.
The green chambers also called on the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing and the Ministry of Water Resources to carry out an immediate assessment of drainage systems and waterways in flood-prone areas and work to reduce blockages that could worsen flooding.
The legislators recommended that the Federal Government through its relevant ministries and agencies, collaborate with state governments to enhance disaster preparedness capabilities.
They also recommended that the federal and state governments should ensure the quick deployment of rescue teams, relief materials, and medical assistance where needed.
In his ruling, the Speaker of the house, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas mandated the Committees on Environment, Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, and Water Resources to ensure continuous monitoring.
The committee are to also ensure post-flood rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that affected communities receive long-term support in rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods.
Addressing newsmen after plenary, Whingan said that the move was to put relevant agencies on high alert so as not to be caught napping.
He said that precautions had to be taken early and not when people are buried in flood before taking actions.
The lawmaker said that aim is to be proactive and to hold all relevant agencies accountable to their duties. (NAN)
