No fewer than 770 households have been displaced by a severe flood in Benue State, triggered by rising water levels that led the River Benue to overflow its banks.
Mr. Aondowase Kunde, the Benue Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, revealed this on Friday during a press briefing in Makurdi.
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Kunde, who also chairs the state’s Flood and Disaster Management Committee, confirmed that Makurdi was the most affected area, with the displaced residents now taking refuge in temporary camps.
“In most local government areas, people managed to stay beyond the river banks, but in Makurdi, approximately 770 households were displaced,” he stated.
According to Kunde, around 520 households are currently sheltered in NKST Primary School, Wadata, while another 250 have taken refuge at Gaadi Comprehensive Secondary School. He emphasized that food supplies, mattresses, and essential non-food items like containers and rice have been provided to the affected individuals through the continued support of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
He expressed optimism that as water levels recede, many of the displaced people could start returning to their homes by the following week. In addition, Kunde noted that Governor Hyacinth Alia has directed a reassessment of the affected areas to determine their safety for habitation.
“Some homes may need fumigation for dangerous reptiles like snakes, as well as insects,” he explained. “As a temporary measure, the government directed that we assess and repair flood-damaged houses and ensure that they are properly maintained before residents return.”
Looking ahead, Kunde shared that the government plans to build houses in safer areas as a long-term solution, aiming to permanently relocate those residing in flood-prone zones.
“The governor is committed to addressing these challenges, including post-flood recovery,” he added.
