The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has sounded the alarm over the risk of severe flooding in Edo State, urging residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to relocate immediately.
This warning was issued by the State Commandant of the NSCDC, Mr. Gbenga Agun, through a statement released by the Corps’ spokesman, Efosa Ogbebor. Agun said the alert follows a recent prediction by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), which forecasted heavy rainfall to persist through September and possibly into October.
“We are calling on all residents in flood-prone areas to take precautionary measures and relocate while there’s still time. It is better to act now than wait until lives and property are lost,” he warned.
The commandant stressed the importance of proactive measures, noting that the heavy rains recorded in July are a strong indicator of potentially worsening conditions. He emphasized the need for swift sensitisation in vulnerable communities across the state.
To this end, the NSCDC has mobilised its Disaster Management Unit and directed Divisional Officers in high-risk locations—such as Agenebode, Udaba, Anegbete, Ukpeko, Illushi, and Oji—to commence immediate public enlightenment efforts.
“These officers have been instructed to educate residents on flood preparedness, safe evacuation strategies, and ways to minimise potential losses,” Agun explained.
The NSCDC boss further called on community leaders and local government councils to support the campaign and partner with the Corps in reaching at-risk populations.
“We are ready to work hand-in-hand with local authorities and traditional rulers to ensure that the people are not caught unaware,” he added.
Agun also urged residents to stay alert, report early signs of flooding, and follow all official directives to help reduce the humanitarian impact of the seasonal disaster.
