Senate has taken decisive action to address the devastating impact of recent flooding in the Abia North Senatorial District of Abia State. In a motion led by the former governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the Senate approved urgent measures to provide relief and support to the affected communities.
The Senate called on the executive and its agencies to take immediate steps to rescue and alleviate the suffering of the inhabitants affected by the flood. Specifically, the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have been urged to provide emergency provisions to help mitigate the effects on Abia North Senatorial District victims.
Additionally, the Senate has requested the Ecological Fund Department of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management to assess the extent of the damages caused by erosion and take necessary measures to rebuild the affected areas.
The Senate has also called on the Federal Ministries of Housing and Urban Development, as well as Power, to rehabilitate the collapsed homes, roads, and electric installations in the affected areas.
To ensure accountability and progress, the Senate has assigned the Committees on Legislative Compliance and Environment to oversee compliance and report back within four weeks.
During the session, the Senate observed silence to honour the lives lost in the flooding incident.
Leading the debate, Senator Kalu highlighted the severe damages caused by the recent downpour in the Abia North Senatorial District communities. He emphasised the loss of lives, the destruction of infrastructure, and the significant impact on agriculture and livelihoods.
Communities such as Igbere, Item, Eziukwu Road, Eze River, Nkporo Umuhu, Abriba, Okonu, Abam lhechiowa, and other adjoining communities in Bende, Ohafia, and Arochukwu Local Government Areas have been severely affected. The socio-economic activities in these areas have been greatly disrupted, leaving the affected citizens in dire circumstances.
Senator Kalu expressed concern for the victims, particularly the rural dwellers, artisans, and farmers now facing a life without necessities. He stressed the urgent need for emergency response to prevent further suffering and potential casualties.
All senators who contributed to the motion supported the proposed measures, and the prayers were approved by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session.