Gov Charles Soludo of Anambra state has called for a dialogue between Nigeria and Cameroon to find lasting solution to the perennial flooding across the country.
According to Soludo the annual flood disaster is occasioned by the damns in Cameroon that leads to the flooding in the riverine areas of Nigeria.
The governor who made this appeal during the inspection of the flood and the Internally displaced persons camps in the affected areas noted that with such dialogue the two countries can take a stop gap measure towards arresting the situation.
According to the Governor, the flood water emanates and surges from Cameroon, asking the federal government to dialogue with the government of Cameroon, to proffer lasting solution to the flood devastation which has unfortunately become an annual occurrence.
He however suggested that solutions like construction of dams or diversionary channels could help solve the problem.
Speaking on the fate of the flood victims he said;
“Anambra State Government is doing everything possible to alleviate the sufferings of the people. They need support now and afterwards because their houses, properties and farmlands are submerged under water. I’m worried that they will have to start life afresh.”
“We are receiving people from Delta State to join IDP Camp in Onitsha North. Today alone, over 400 displaced persons have reported here,” Soludo noted.
He empathized with them, expressing optimism that in the coming weeks, the flood will recede and they will find their way back to their respective homes.
“As Ndi Anambra, we are particularly concerned and disturbed about this flood crises. We’ve observed all you need to make your stay here minimally comfortable. As a government, we will try our best to provide power supply, foams, soap, mosquito nets, medical care and others”.
“it’s saddening that every year, people run away from their abode because of flooding. I have visited the clinic, cooking space and seen the damaged zincs / roofs that cause leakages when there is downpour. We shall support you,” Soludo assured.
He noted that the Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka represents Anambra East while the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne represents Anambra West, and expressed displeasure over the inability of the affected children to attend school and play football for leisure.
“This crises affects all of us Soludo bemoaned”.
“Government will extend support and hopefully, within two weeks, the flood will subside. When you return to your homes, government will still come back to visit and assess your losses”.
“We are willing to help restore all you have lost”, Soludo stressed.
The Governor was later joined by the lawmaker representing Anambra East and West Federal Constituency, Chief Chinedu Obidigwe who donated footballs to children to play with.
