The Kogi State Government has called on the Federal Government to intervene urgently as devastating floods have displaced over 70 communities across the state.
This appeal was made by Kogi State Deputy Governor, Salifu Oyibo, during an inspection of the flood-ravaged Edeha community in Kogi Local Government Area. Oyibo, who also chairs the 2024 Flood Disaster Response Committee, stressed that despite the state’s preparedness, the current situation has overwhelmed local capacity.
“It is clear that the present situation is beyond what the Kogi State Government can manage on its own,” Oyibo stated. “Over 70 communities are submerged, thousands of homes are affected, and the damage to properties and farms is yet to be fully assessed. The Federal Government’s intervention is urgently needed.”
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Communities Relocated, No Casualties Reported
While no lives have been lost, Oyibo noted that most affected communities have been relocated to the 48 Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps set up by the state government, with two located in Kotonkarfe. He emphasized that the state is committed to easing the suffering of those displaced, although the scale of the disaster requires federal support.
Community Leaders Join Call for Help
The Chief of Edeha, Abdullahi Isah, praised the state government for its quick response but echoed the deputy governor’s call for federal assistance. “We beg the Federal Government, corporate bodies, international organizations, and individuals to help us. The state government cannot do it alone,” Isah said.
With the flooding becoming an annual challenge in Kogi, affected communities are urging swift and coordinated relief efforts to address the mounting crisis.
