Haunted by the spectre of past flood disasters in the country following torrential rains and the recent devastation of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, due to the collapse of Alau Dam, Nigerians in the littoral states of the country are presently living in fear over a possible re-enactment of similar tragedies in the wake of the reported release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroun. The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, had on Tuesday September 17, 2024 issued a warning of possible severe flooding that will affect approximately eleven states across the country with the release of water from the Lagdo Dam.
The states likely to be impacted and which border the Benue River include Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Edo, Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross-Rivers, and Rivers. NIHSA also advised people in these states as well as officials of government at all levels to “heighten their vigilance and implement appropriate preparedness measures to mitigate potential flooding impacts that may arise due to an increase in flow levels of our major rivers during this period.”
According to a statement the agency issued in this regard: “The authorities of the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon have communicated to the agency that they will initiate controlled water releases at a rate of 100m³/s (8,640,000m³/day) starting today, September 17, 2024.” The statement, signed by the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Umar Muhammed, added that: “The water discharge is anticipated to progressively escalate to 1000m³/s over the next seven days based on the inflow from the upstream Garoua River, which serves as the primary source into the reservoir and a significant tributary to the Benue River.”
NIHSA did not stop there. It had on Thursday September 19, warned Nigerians resident in floodplains to relocate immediately to safe spaces in anticipation of attendant floods arising from the intermittent release of water from the Lagdo Dam.
This warning has since thrown those in the affected states into a panic mode. From North to South, there is palpable anxiety as state governments and relevant agencies of the Federal Government are in a race against time to activate appropriate measures to mitigate the impact of the expected flooding, especially in the flood-prone plains of the vulnerable states. But even as the relevant authorities are investing in comprehensive flood control measures and disaster management strategies to mitigate the impact of flooding, there are indications that they are not getting the full cooperation of people in the affected states as many in the flood plains continue to ignore the order to relocate to safer areas for now.
In a chat with Vanguard, spokesperson of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Ezekiel Manzo, affirmed that release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam is ongoing, but gradually downstream River Benue. He said the implication of the release is that it safeguards possible risk of damage that may occur to the dam when its capacity is overwhelmed. According to him: “A breakage of the dam would cause much damage in Nigeria as we have witnessed recently in Maiduguri with Alau dam, a much smaller dam compared to the one in Cameroun.”
He added that NEMA “factored the tendency of the release of excess water from the dam in our flood mitigation, preparedness and response for the year”. He also informed that “the DG NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, has activated all heads of NEMA offices to immediately alert the state governments and local authorities as well as communities at risk of the likelihood of flooding and prepositioned our facilities for rescue”.
… in the North
In the North that has suffered a lot of flood-related disasters this year, the release of water from the Lagdo Dam is regarded as a bad omen, one pregnant with another flood catastrophe, thus triggering anxiety and confusion.
Starting from Adamawa, which shares boundary with Cameroun along with Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa and Kogi states, apprehension is very high among the people. People are on edge, even as they seem to have resigned themselves to fate while wondering when the flooding will start and the magnitude of its fury.
Benue: Govt takes steps to avert tragedy
Anxiety, it appears, is more pronounced and worrisome in Benue State, which is host to River Benue, the second longest river in Nigeria and a tributary of the River Niger. Measuring a length of over 870 miles, the river traverses Nigeria and neighbouring Cameroon.
So, any spike in River Niger would automatically stir up the Benue River to discharge its contents into the nearby communities. This is the biggest fear of the people in Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Adamawa and Taraba.
The fear of Benue people is heightened apparently by the fact that over the years the state has continued to suffer the direct impact of the rise of water levels in the neighbouring Cameroun, necessitating the authorities in that country to release excess water from the Lagdo Dam located 50km south of the city of Garoua into the Benue River.
But in response to the Federal Government’s advice to states to take necessary steps to avert possible disaster by mitigating the impact of the large volume of water from the dam, the Benue State government said it has already placed its people on red alert in flood-prone areas such as Apa, Agatu, Guma, Buruku, Tarka, Kastina-Ala, Logo, Ado, Gwer West, Makurdi local government areas, among others.
It also informed that it has set up the State Technical Committee on Flooding Preparedness and Planning to coordinate activities before, during and after the flood.
The committee is working with the state Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, and several other partners to put its measures in place so as to mitigate the negative impact of imminent flooding.
The Benue State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Frederick Ikyaan, who led the team to some of the locations and sites to get them ready for any eventuality, said the government has taken necessary steps to avert disaster in the state.
Dr. Ikyaan said: “So far what we have on ground is enough to accommodate whatever degree of incidents that we may record as a result of any flood. As a government we are ready to handle the challenge.”
Governor Hyacinth Alia personally assured that everything was being done to ensure the safety of all the citizens through proactive measures being put in place.
The Governor said: “We are prepared to tackle flooding, having carried out adequate sensitisation of riverbank residents.” He, however, pointed out that in spite of warnings, some residents have refused to evacuate the floodplains, but added that the government will persist in appealing to them to move to safer higher grounds.
A resident of Agbohoul, a community in the outskirts of Makurdi town, which is prone to flooding, Mr. Dave Adie, said since the announcement of the release of water from Lagdo Dam they had been on the alert, while many also have made arrangements to relocate to safer areas.
He said: “Some of us are already leaving to stay with relatives in the town and other safe places while some are here monitoring the development. If we notice that we may be submerged we will move out. But for now, we are just monitoring the situation.”
Adamawa: Residents refuse to relocate, say it’s a taboo
People likely to be impacted in Adamawa State are those living in the Northern senatorial zone of the state which is not too far away from the River Benue. The zone comprises Michika, Madagali, Yola North and Yola South local government areas and some other adjourning communities within the fringes of Cameroun.
But even as the dreaded water from Lagdo Dam is yet to make its presence felt, no fewer than 12 persons have been killed by flood in these communities, while over 30,000 others have been displaced and properties worth millions of Naira washed away.
Year-in year-out, nine of the 21 local government areas that are by the bank of River Benue must witness flooding even if there is no release of water from Lagdo Dam.
That explains the swift order by the state governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, for those living on the flood path to evacuate with immediate effect so as to escape the looming calamity. However, such order has largely been ignored as the people consider it a taboo to flee from their ancestral homes and find solace in strange lands. They will rather dare the flood if it comes rather than move away as refugees.
Taraba: 7 LGAs to be impacted; govt sets up flood control team
Taraba State is regarded as highly vulnerable to flooding whenever water is released from the Lagdo Dam. Hence, it is expected to feel the impact of a significant upsurge in river levels due to the extensive stretch of the River Benue over its territory. According to officials, seven out of the 16 local government areas in the state would be negatively impacted due to their proximity to the river.
The impact of flooding is already being felt in the state due to heavy rainfall, which has washed away some strategic bridges, especially that of Namnai Village in Gassol LGA, connecting the Northern Part of the State to the South.
But, in response to the recent development, the state governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, announced the formation of a flood control team. According to him: “Our state has been significantly affected by flooding, which has impacted the lives and livelihoods of our citizens. In response, we have established a flood control team across all the 168 wards, focusing on emergency management and proactive measures to prevent future disasters.
“We will continue to build on this as we are committed to finding lasting solutions to these challenges by working closely with experts and communities to mitigate the impact of flooding on our people.”
Also, the state Commissioner for Special Duties and Social Development, Saviour Noku, while reacting to the alert from the Federal Government, said a multi-sectoral team had been constituted and dispatched to flood-prone communities.
He disclosed that the state is collaborating with some agencies and humanitarian organisations to address any eventuality that might arise in the coming days.
According to him: “All plans are in top gear. In fact, we are in collaboration with NIWA, Red Cross, SEMA, and the Fire Service. We have also gone round to sensitise communities across the state prone to flooding.
“We are also working with local government chairmen whose domains have communities along the stretch of River Benue to ensure that they are moved to upland areas. And for those who have relocated to upland areas, we also have in stock food and non-food items for their immediate needs.”
Kogi: Govt sets up 42 IDPs camps ahead of expected flooding
Kogi State, which is at the centre of the River Niger, with the appellation of ‘Confluence State’, is exposed to the high risk of being swept away if the water from the Lagdo Dam is not properly controlled when released. This is because as at Saturday, September 21, 2024 the volume of water in Lokoja had risen to 8.9 million (cubic metres) being the highest so far this year. This development has already made some riverine areas in the state to suffer flash flooding – endangering farm crops and properties.
Consequently, no fewer than nine local government areas of the state are prone to flooding. Out of these nine, five have been predicted this year to be heavily affected: They are Lokoja, Kogi, Ibaji, Omala and Bassa LGAs. While the remaining four of Igalamela/Odolu, Ajaokuta, Ofu and Idah may not be heavily hit.
Kogi State’s geographical landscape makes it perennially vulnerable to the devastating impact of flooding. The state, centrally located and traversed by Rivers Niger and Benue, is particularly prone to flooding due to its unique geographical features and climatic conditions.
However, in the face of recurring threats, the state government said it has taken a forward-thinking approach, proactively investing in comprehensive flood control measures and disaster management strategies to mitigate the impact of flooding on its citizens.
With the volume of water already at 8.9m, the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, in collaboration with the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, KOSEMA, has carried out NEEDS assessment of LGAs that are prone to flooding and has assured residents of flood preparedness and safety measures.
According to KOSEMA Executive Director, Mr. Murktar Atima, the agency is collaborating with and has indeed mobilised traditional rulers to amplify its flood preparedness messages and promote self-evacuation plans.
“The agency has also commenced public awareness campaigns through radio jingles, set up a technical committee to oversee and coordinate 2024 flood management efforts, ensuring a unified and effective response to potential flood threats.
“The state has also established 42 IDPs (internally displaced persons) camps which will provide temporary shelters and essential services to those affected by flooding. By taking these proactive measures, Kogi State has demonstrated its commitment to disaster management and its ability to respond swiftly to emergencies,” he said.
Murktar further said that the state has installed Flood Monitoring Equipment, which utilizes advanced technology to monitor water levels, track rainfall and analyse weather patterns.
In addition, it provides crucial time for residents to evacuate and seek safety, minimising the risk of harm and property damage. The early warning system enables communities to take proactive measures, ensuring a swift and effective response to potential flood threats.”
Murktar also said aside the preventive measures, the state government is presently taking steps that will protect its citizens and communities from the devastating impacts of flooding.
Nasarawa: State govt to use FG’s N3 billion to tackle impact of flooding
On its own part, the Nasarawa State Government says it has alerted all the flood-prone communities through intensified sensitisation to mitigate flood disasters in the state.
Mr. Yakubu Kwanta, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, said the state would not leave anything to chance regarding the plan to release water from Lagdo Dam into Nigeria so as to prevent any damage or loss of lives.
He said that Nasarawa State was among the states that received the N3 billion that the Federal Government graciously disbursed to flood-prone states and that the money would be judiciously used to tackle the envisaged challenge.
Kwanta said: “As you know, Gov. Abdullahi Sule is a transparent person; he will ensure that the fund is utilised judiciously, especially for what it is meant. We have automated machines in the flood-prone local government areas which are connected to our phones.
“Any time the alarm is shown to us that there will be flooding, we start telling these people to evacuate to a safer place,” Kwanta said. The flood prone communities in the state cut across Awe, Obi and Toto local governments.
South-South: Bayelsa, Rivers, C’ River, Delta brace up for impending flood
*Set up committees to tackle menace
The littoral states in the South-South, among them, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River and Delta, said they were in advance preparation to tackle the impending flood disaster as predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, to avoid a recurrence of the 2022 unfortunate experience.
Many of the states have also set up committees in anticipation of the deluge to mitigate the consequences on the people.
Bayelsa State, which is the receptacle of the nation’s water bodies and one of the most impacted states every flood season has since established a Directorate of Erosion and Flood Control.
Governor Douye Diri, while inaugurating the members of the body in Yenagoa, explained that the impact of erosion and annual flooding on the socio-economic lives of Bayelsans necessitated the setting up of the directorate.
With the state seriously prone to flood and with the forecast of an expected flood coupled with the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroun into Rivers Niger and Benue and its consequences, the Directorate has commenced the clearing of all blocked canals in the capital city and its environs.
The canals which could have served as natural drainage are used by residents as dumping sites for refuse, necessitating the clearing up to ensure free flow to reduce flooding.
Some structures on its right of way were pulled down for easy movement of water in the flood-prone area, while residents of the state have been sensitised to prepare for the impending flood.
In Rivers State, the government through the Commissioner for Environment, Tanbark Sydney Gbara, said the Ministry has embarked on canalisation and desilting of relevant waterways, channels and major drainages in various flood-prone areas across the state, including the long-winding Ntawoba Creek in Port Harcourt, as part of measures to combat flooding and related disasters in the state.
“As a Ministry, we made significant preparatory strides setting up facilities and modalities, as well as orientating and mobilising our personnel, resource persons, stakeholders, resources, materials and equipment in readiness for urgent interventions and emergency operations, especially in lieu of flooding incidents in any location in Rivers State.
“You can also see that the Ntawoba Channel and other canals, creeks and drainages across the state have been undergoing regular desilting and clearing,” he said.
The Commissioner maintained that one of the headaches of the ministry is the indiscriminate dumping of waste into the canals by some market women, but added that the ministry has factored a way in which the trend could be reversed through proper orientation that will border on good healthy habits.
Also, a Committee headed by the State Deputy Governor, Dr. Ngozi Odu, saddled with the responsibility of relocating, managing and supplying relief materials to communities in the event of flooding has been set up by the Governor.
According to the commissioner, drastic steps have been taken to avert the impact of flooding on communities across the state, even though there are no reported cases of flooding presently in Rivers.
He added that the state government in collaboration with the National Emergency Management agency, NEMA, will continue to sensitize residents to stop dumping refuse in the drainage to ensure free flow of water. Some of the flood-prone areas include Khana, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, Port Harcourt City, Obio/Akpor local government areas.
We are prepared— C’River State Govt
The situation is not different in Cross River State where measures have been put in place to mitigate any eventuality.
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu told Vanguard that the state government recently inaugurated the Continuous Operating Reference Stations, CORS, to enhance geospatial management within the state.
This, according to the governor’s media aide, represents networks of Global Navigation Satellite System, GNSS, receivers that furnish uninterrupted data for precise positioning and navigation, serving crucial roles in surveying, mapping, and geographic information systems.
“The state hosts two CORS stations, poised to deliver accurate data essential for flood management. Furthermore, the state’s emergency management agency stands primed to mount effective responses. In the event, our data signals areas necessitating evacuation, prompt actions will be taken,” he revealed.
On his part, the Director General of SEMA in the state, Apostle James Anam, explained that his agency has embarked on different advocacy campaigns to enlighten as well as alert the people of the predictions of flood and impending consequences of not adhering to warnings.
His words: “We are embarking on advocacy campaigns around the state, especially flood prone areas. This is meant to enlighten our people on the issue at stake by creating awareness to get them on standby mode for proactive steps to avert collateral damage. We don’t want to record any loss of life.
“Our jingles are already running on radio stations to appeal to our people to desist from blocking drainages or waterways in view of the looming danger. We have equally engaged town criers to disseminate the same message across flash point areas around the state. Village and town council unions as well as critical stakeholders are all also involved in the enlightenment campaign,” Anam said.
He added that they are collaborating with NEMA, NiMet and other sister agencies in the various proactive steps adopted to safeguard lives and property. “We are distilling our drainage around major roads in Calabar and the state as a flood control measure. We are also setting up safe havens across our senatorial districts for emergency evacuation once we get the danger signs from our monitoring partners,” he said.
Delta
Though the water level is increasing along the River Niger and the adjoining creeks in Delta State, the surge is yet to get to an alarming level in the state.
Vanguard checks, however, revealed that the current surge is as a result of torrential rainfall in the last few weeks. Farmers in some of the flood-prone communities have started embarking on premature harvest of their crops to avoid being caught off-guard by the impending flood.
Speaking on the steps the state government is taking to mitigate the impact of flooding, the Chief Press Secretary to the State Governor, Festus Ahon, said: “First of all, we have placed jingles on radio and television to sensitise our people to move to upland areas, especially those living in flood- prone areas.
“We have also hired town criers to also go round those flood-prone communities to enlighten the people on the need to move to the upland zone for safety.
“Beyond that, we are also setting up IDPs Camps in Asaba, Ozoro, Kwale, Patani and Jeremi so that in the event that the flood comes, we can move the people there. We are also prepared as a state to ensure that they are taken care of in the camps medically and otherwise.
Ahon added that the state government had also embarked on the opening of drains and natural waterways as part of measures to tackle the problem of flooding.
South-East: Untold hardship as relocation begins in Anambra
In Anambra State, the usual annual relocation of residents in the flood-prone areas of the state has begun with the River Niger already beginning to overflow into many riverine communities.
Areas mostly affected are Ogbaru, Anambra West, Anambra East, Ayamelum, as well as parts of Onitsha South, Ekwusigo and Awka North.
The development has caused untold hardship among the people who are mostly farmers. As a result of the flood, crops such as yams, cassava, and onions are harvested prematurely, with the attendant huge losses on the farmers who said they borrowed money to plant and could no longer afford to repay the loans.
In addition to the crops, many houses have been submerged such that schools in the affected areas could not reopen when others did at the beginning of the new academic session.
Mrs. Eunice Odita from Ogwu in Ogbaru Local Government Area said she could not salvage most of the crops in her farm because the flood was so sudden.
She said: “I visited my farm at Agwe, a day earlier and noticed that the flood was threatening. I returned home to engage labourers who would assist me to harvest my yams and cassava the following day. When we got to the farm, I discovered that the entire farm had been flooded.
“We managed to salvage just a few of the crops and the rest were damaged. The few yams and cassava we salvaged could not even last for one month and I don’t know how my family can survive the impending hunger.”
Also, some markets in the commercial city of Onitsha are being threatened following the rising level of the River Niger.
Many structures within the Onitsha office of the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, have been flooded and the traders there have packed their goods and relocated to the upland.
To assist the displaced communities, the Anambra State government has activated 27 Internally Displaced Persons, IDP, camps in various parts of the state. The state governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, said government has prepared adequately for this year’s flood as it is working with the Federal Government to handle the situation.
“We are dealing with our environment and we have received all manner of warnings. We have been preparing to deal with the expected massive flooding as Anambra is usually one of the states to be badly affected.
“We are working very hard on this and the last time it happened about two years ago, eight local government areas in this state were flooded, damaging goods and wealth and assets worth hundreds of billions of naira and displaced hundreds of thousands of persons.
“We are getting ready for that. This year we have been warned so we are preparing and it is going to cost the state a humongous amount of money to do that and we are gathering and getting ready.
“The Federal Government, for example, sent some 24,000 bags of rice which we were keeping for this particular major emergency that is expected to happen any moment from now and we are distributing it to the wards and the eight local government areas at 70 bags per ward. We are also putting our own together and it would cost resources of billions of naira.”
