Residents of Illushi community in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State have appealed to the federal and state governments for urgent assistance to relocate to safer areas as the River Niger threatens to overflow its banks.
The residents said more than three-quarters of the community had already been submerged following the rising water level, raising fears of further destruction if the river continues to overflow.
The traditional ruler of Illushi, Christopher Ike Ikebodi, made the appeal in an interview, urging the government to provide a safe temporary settlement for residents of the flood-prone community.
According to him, the community lacks the resources to relocate on its own and is relying on government intervention to avert a humanitarian crisis.
“We cannot help ourselves. We rely on the government, as we were told that the flood will overtake everywhere.
“We are pleading for help. Illushi has almost been taken away. Three-quarters of the community has been washed away. We are begging the government to help us. When the River Niger overflows its banks, we will be in trouble,” he said.
The traditional ruler said residents had been aware of forecasts warning of severe flooding this year but were unable to relocate due to a lack of resources and alternative accommodation.
Edo State is among the 11 states listed as being at risk of flooding this year, with residents in flood-prone communities previously advised to relocate to safer locations as a precaution.
