The Benue State Government has mobilized traditional rulers, religious leaders, media, and other key stakeholders to coordinate an effective emergency response to the anticipated flood disaster in the state.
This collaborative effort aims to protect lives and property by disseminating early warning and mitigation messages at the grassroots level before the flooding occurs.
Sir James Iorpuu, the Acting Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), made this announcement during a sensitization visit to the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, the Och’ Idoma palace, and Joy FM Otukpo. He emphasized the importance of deeper collaboration between SEMA and the diocese, particularly regarding humanitarian response and disaster preparedness.
“The purpose of our visit was to evaluate the conditions of designated shelters, such as the St. Francis School Otukpo, which will accommodate those displaced by the impending floods,” he noted.
Bishop Michael Apochi of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo expressed gratitude for the visit and reiterated the church’s commitment to supporting flood victims, highlighting its role in nation-building and its capacity to provide not only material aid but also spiritual and emotional support.
Iorpuu also visited HRM Chief John Obagaji Odogbo, the Och’ Idoma, to seek royal blessings and support from the traditional council in addressing the flooding’s impacts on the Idoma community. He thanked the Och’ Idoma for his ongoing partnership, stressing the need for traditional leaders to raise awareness about disaster preparedness and foster peace among affected populations and host communities.
The Och’ Idoma acknowledged the cultural sensitivities regarding camp living, stating that it is considered a taboo for the Idoma people to live in camps and receive aid like beggars, regardless of how well the camps are organized. He reassured the SEMA delegation of the kingdom’s willingness to collaborate with the government.
The SEMA team also visited Joy FM Otukpo to engage the public in an awareness campaign about the upcoming flood. The General Manager, Mrs. Ogli Christabel Ebugo, welcomed the team and expressed appreciation for their efforts to keep the community informed.
