In light of the recent devastating floods that have afflicted the Niger Delta region, Yekini Nabena, a prominent chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has issued a heartfelt appeal to both the Federal Government and donor agencies. His statement emphasized the urgent need for immediate attention and assistance to the nine states in the region that have been severely impacted. The states highlighted in his plea include Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers. Nabena underscored the dire situation these communities are facing, which has resulted in loss of life, destruction of property, and devastating impacts on local agriculture and livelihoods.
Nabena’s appeal comes shortly after Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, announced measures to distribute palliatives worth millions of naira to aid displaced individuals in the affected areas. The relief items identified for distribution include essential goods such as rice, spaghetti, beans, sewing and grinding machines, motorcycles, and cooking stoves. While these measures are a step in the right direction, Nabena’s assertion calls for additional support, especially a commensurate level of humanitarian assistance akin to that received by residents of Borno State, which earlier faced significant flooding challenges. He urges the government to extend similar support to the victims in the Niger Delta, highlighting that they too deserve critical aid and resources during this trying time.
The extent of destruction caused by the flooding has left entire communities in distress. Nabena highlighted that lives have been lost, properties annihilated, and extensive agricultural lands, particularly in states like Bayelsa and Delta, have been obliterated, displacing numerous individuals and rendering them jobless. The sheer scale of the disaster has overwhelmed existing governmental agencies, including the Niger Delta Development Commission, thus necessitating a more concerted and robust intervention from higher authorities and humanitarian organizations. This is essential to mitigate the adverse effects of the flood and provide a semblance of stability to those affected.
Nabena’s frustrations reflect a broader sentiment regarding the disparity in the support provided to regions undergoing humanitarian crises. By drawing comparisons with the aid given to Borno State, he is calling for equitable treatment and assistance for the Niger Delta flood victims, emphasizing that the need for intervention transcends regional boundaries. Such a holistic approach to disaster management will not only address the immediate needs of the affected populations but will also foster a sense of unity among citizens across varying regions of Nigeria who face similar challenges.
In particular, Nabena has made a direct appeal to the newly appointed Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda. He urges Yilwatda and relevant agencies, such as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Commission for Refugees, to be proactive and responsive to the ongoing crisis. The involvement of these organizations is critical in streamlining assistance efforts and ensuring that aid reaches the most affected and vulnerable populations promptly, thereby alleviating some of the suffering that has arisen from recent calamities.
Ultimately, Nabena’s call for action is a poignant reminder of the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by many in Nigeria, particularly those living in flood-prone regions. By advocating for increased government and donor agency involvement, he seeks to address the urgent needs of displaced individuals while also laying the groundwork for better disaster response mechanisms for the future. As the situation evolves, it remains imperative for all parties involved—government officials, humanitarian organizations, and the community—to collaborate effectively, prioritize the welfare of those affected by the floods, and ensure equitable access to necessary resources.
