The Executive Chairman of Numan Local Government Area, Hon. Innocent Koto, has emphasised the urgent need for residents in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer locations to prevent damage and loss of life.
“I plead with you, the signs are already evident from both the River Benue and Kiri Dam regarding the twin flooding problems in our local government area. Please take action and move to the safer zones that the government has provided because every life is important,” Koto stated.
This call was made shortly after monitoring the flood situation in several parts of Numan, where both the Gongola and Benue Rivers have reached dangerous levels.
Earlier this month, Hon. Innocent Koto had urged residents living in flood-prone areas to take immediate action to relocate. Now, as the Chief Security Officer of the local government area, he is reinforcing this message to prevent potential loss of life.
“Flooding is a reality, and we have seen its damage and repercussions in some parts of the state, claiming about twenty-nine lives and causing extensive property damage in Yola South. I appeal to you and your families to move away from flood zones because what we are experiencing now are flash floods from nearby rivers. Furthermore, the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon has not yet released its waters, which could worsen the situation,” the Numan Council Boss added.
Hon. Koto also reported that many farmlands have already been destroyed, although no casualties have been recorded. He called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA) to assist the flood victims and help alleviate their suffering.
Additionally, the Numan boss praised Hamma Bachama, Dr. Daniel Ismaila Shaga, for his efforts in encouraging people to stay away from flood-prone areas to protect themselves and their families.
“We have already sensitised our people on the need to relocate, by the directive from Adamawa State Governor, Dr. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, to avoid damage and loss of life due to flooding,” Hon. Innocent Koto concluded.