In a bid to avert the loss of lives and property due to flooding, the Kwara State Government has launched a comprehensive sensitisation campaign in the riverine areas of the state.
The sensitisation campaign team, which was led by Commissioner for Environment Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, visited Gbaradogi village in Patigi Local Government Area to convey government’s commitment to public safety and appealed to affected residents to relocate to a safer place to avoid a flood disaster.
According to a statement by the press secretary of the ministry, Kamaldeen Aliagan, in Ilorin on Friday, Buge emphasised: “The current administration is deeply concerned about the impending flood situation and will therefore take proactive measures at ensuring the safety of lives and property, as well as avoiding the outbreak of communicable diseases.”
The commissioner urged those residing in riverine communities to heed government’s warnings by relocating to higher grounds or the Internally Displaced Persons, IDP, camp provided by the state government.
She also warned against river travelling during rainy seasons to prevent boat mishaps.
Buge stressed further the importance of obtaining necessary approvals from relevant government agencies before embarking on whatever constructions and as well avoiding building houses close to or on waterways, adding that residents should follow government’s directives on evacuation as provided by the state Ministry of Environment and the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA.
The commissioner reaffirmed government’s commitment to continue providing necessary relief and support for affected communities while also encouraging sustainable living practices.
In his comment, the village head of Gbaradogi, Alhaji Ndatsadu Muhammad, commended the state government’s initiative, stating that it would go a long way towards preventing the loss of lives and property in riverine areas.
He, however, requested more relief materials to alleviate the suffering of affected people, particularly in the provision of food and potable water.