15000 persons may be Displaced by Flood in 14 LGAs - RSG





The Rivers State Government says it has a projection that about 15000 persons may be displaced by floods in the 14 local government areas that have been predicted to experience flooding in the state.
But the government said it has put measures in place to mitigate its impact on indigenes of the state.

Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Thomas Bariere made the assertion on Friday while receiving a delegation of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on behalf of the Governor of Rivers State in his office.

According to Barie, some of the measures adopted include: "Identification of higher grounds, which will be used for the provision of IDP camps to accommodate the projected 15000 people that may be so displaced.

"Local Flood management committee have been set up across the various Local government areas concerned with the collaboration of the LGA council chairmen, the intention is to ensure there is effective monitoring and sharing of information on whether or not there will be need to evacuate people".

He also stated that Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) has since commenced the clearing of waterways and drianages to ensure free flow of running water.

"Mass sensitization and flood awareness creation across the state amongst others have also been put in place," he added.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Mrs Fatima Kasum, Deputy Director Planning NEMA and Team Lead Flood Advocacy Rivers State, stated that the purpose of the visit was to receive update on the extent of flood prevention and control preparedness of the state, as well as get feed back on challenges the state is encountering, if any.