Flooding caused by rising water levels from the River Benue has left more than 770 households displaced, primarily affecting communities in Makurdi, Benue State.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Aondowase Kunde, provided the update during a press briefing on Friday in Makurdi.
Kunde, who also leads the state’s Flood and Disaster Management Committee, noted that Makurdi experienced the worst of the flooding. “In most local government areas, people managed to stay beyond the river banks, but in Makurdi, approximately 770 households were displaced,” he said. Displaced residents are currently staying in temporary camps.
“About 520 families have taken refuge at NKST Primary School in Wadata, while another 250 households are sheltering at Gaadi Comprehensive Secondary School,” Kunde reported. He also noted that the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been providing essential relief items, including food, mattresses, containers, and rice, for the past two weeks to assist those affected.
Expressing optimism about the possibility of families returning home soon, Kunde stated, “With the receding water levels, we hope that displaced persons can return to their homes by next week.” He added that the governor has mandated another assessment of flood-affected areas to determine whether conditions are safe for returning residents.
The commissioner also mentioned that some homes might need fumigation due to potential hazards like snakes and other harmful insects. “As a temporary measure, the governor has directed that we assess and repair flood-damaged houses, ensuring they are safe before residents return,” Kunde explained.
Looking ahead, Kunde emphasized that the state government’s long-term plan includes constructing safer housing for residents of flood-prone areas. “The government’s long-term plan is to construct houses in safer areas and relocate those living in flood-prone areas,” he said, adding, “The governor is committed to addressing these challenges, including post-flood recovery, to support those impacted by this disaster.”
