By Edeniyere Abraham Osose
The Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EdoSEMA) in collaboration with the Edo State Migration Agency (EDMA) has initiated the evacuation of displaced residents of Amadasun flood victims to a designated rehabilitation centre where they would receive comprehensive care, including food, shelter, psychosocial support, amongst others.
According to the Executive Secretary of EdoSEMA, Hon. Jerry Idahosa, the evacuation was in the wake of the devastating flood that ravaged the Amadasun environs in Etete GRA, Benin City, following a torrential downpour. The Team embarked on a coordinated rescue mission to evacuate affected residents, assessed the extent of the damage, and provided immediate relief.
Some eyewitnesses explained that the flooding occurred after the collapse of a perimeter fence, resulting in a surge of water that inundated homes, destroyed properties, and displaced numerous families. Responding to the distress call from residents, EdoSEMA mobilised to the scene to conduct a comprehensive on-the-spot assessment and begin evacuation efforts.
Hon. Idahosa sympathising with the victims, said, “We are here this morning under the directive of His Excellency, the Governor, to ascertain the extent of the damage and identify those who have been affected and displaced by this unfortunate incident. I appeal to you all to remain patient with us. As a priority, we will ensure that temporary shelter is provided for the displaced so that everyone has a roof over his or her head.”
He assured that a detailed report and set of recommendations would be submitted to the State Government to implement long-term solutions to the recurring flooding in the area. “We are committed to ensuring that what we have witnessed here today receives the urgent attention it deserves,” he added.
The Director General (DG) of EDMA, Hon. Chief Lucky Adazuma, who responded promptly upon receiving notification from EdoSEMA, coordinated closely to ensure the victims were safely transported to the rehabilitation centre. “With our counsellors already in place, we will rehabilitate everyone affected. We understand what it means to lose one’s home, and we are not taking this lightly. We are fully aligned with the vision of His Excellency, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, who is committed to seeing that these residents are reintegrated into society with dignity,” he affirmed.
EDMA confirmed that the names and contact details of all affected households had been collected to facilitate ongoing supports. Victims were reminded that the temporary shelter provided is intended solely for those directly affected, and they were urged not to invite extended family members into the facility.
One of the victims, Mr. Emmanuel Ezekiel, emotionally recounted his ordeal, saying, “The flood took everything, our certificates, money, foodstuffs, and household belongings. It’s a complete loss.” He lamented, appealing to governments and well-meaning individuals across Edo State to come to their aid.
The all-day operation, which began at the break of dawn and continued into the night, exemplified the Edo State Government’s dedication to protecting its citizens at all times. It was a testimony of proactive leadership, community solidarity, and institutional collaboration in the State.
While the flood has left a trail of destruction, the rapid response by EdoSEMA and EDMA has offered displaced residents some much-needed lifeline and a renewed sense of hope.
