The Benue State Government has taken proactive steps to address the plight of flood victims in Makurdi by establishing relief camps and distributing essential materials. Following severe flooding that affected various communities, the government organized a response strategy aimed at supporting those displaced. Josephine Haba, a member of the Technical Committee on Flood and director of the Benue Peace Commission, emphasized the need to assist verified victims immediately. She highlighted that camps were set up on Saturday and are operational at three locations: NKST Primary School, Wadata; Gaadi Comprehensive Secondary School; and Makurdi International Market. This immediate response showcases the government’s commitment to providing aid amidst a recurring natural disaster.
The registration process for victims is ongoing, allowing for continued assessment of their needs. Haba stated that despite the fluid process of registration, it was imperative to furnish the internally displaced persons (IDPs) with food and sleeping materials. The distribution of relief items commenced soon after the camps were established, addressing the immediate needs of those affected by the floods. Haba explained that the registration of victims was facilitated through the Kobo wallet platform, with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) participating in verifying these registrations. This collaborative effort demonstrates a structured approach to disaster management and relief efforts.
So far, the distribution has included vital supplies such as rice, beds, and mosquito nets, crucial for the well-being of the flood victims. Haba assured that wash kits and additional provisions would follow shortly. Furthermore, the IOM is working on improving sanitation facilities by renovating existing toilets and constructing new ones, alongside ensuring a reliable water supply for the camps. The swift establishment of these facilities reflects an understanding of the basic needs for health and hygiene in the aftermath of such disasters, contributing to the overall dignity and well-being of the displaced individuals.
Mr. James Iorhuna, the camp manager, reported that over 150 households had been registered since the onset of the camp’s operations. This number illustrates the scale of the impact of the floods, as each registered household represents a family in need. Iorhuna mentioned that the next step involves identifying specific needs of the victims to communicate effectively with the relevant authorities. This grassroots approach is essential for tailoring interventions that meet the precise demands of the affected communities, ensuring that relief efforts are targeted and efficient.
Personal accounts from flood victims reveal the profound impact of the flooding on their lives. Mrs. Ashi Aganyi, a victim, described the traumatic experience of losing all her belongings due to the floodwaters. She emphasized that the flood has become an annual crisis in her community, Inyongu, urging the government to implement sustainable solutions to mitigate these recurring disasters. Reports also indicated significant flooding in other areas, including Gyado Villa, Wadata, Wurukum, and parts of North Bank in the Makurdi metropolis. Many residents were observed salvaging what they could from their submerged homes, indicating a desperate and emotional response to the sudden loss of stability.
The perspective of victims like Terhemba Pine adds a personal dimension to the scale of the disaster. Having underestimated the threat of flooding, he expressed regret over his decision not to relocate to designated safer areas. Pine’s experience speaks to the broader challenge of disaster preparedness in vulnerable communities. He recounted the extensive losses he faced, including vital documents and essential food supplies. His account, alongside others, highlights not only the immediate impact of the floods but also the need for more proactive measures and public awareness campaigns to better prepare communities for future flood risks. As the government continues its relief efforts, the call for long-term solutions to the flooding crisis grows louder among the affected populations.
