The House of Representatives has urged the Federal and State Governments to adopt control measures to mitigate the impact of flood disasters in 22 states, including the Federal Capital Territory.
The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Badagry Federal Constituency, Lagos State, Oluwaseun Whingan, during Wednesday’s plenary.
Titled “Urgent need for precautionary measures to mitigate predicted flood risks in 22 states and the FCT,” Whingan cited a report by the October 14, 2024 edition of The PUNCH concerning the prediction of five days of heavy rainfall, which may lead to flooding in 22 states and the FCT.
The report was attributed to the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre of the Federal Ministry of Environment.
The lawmaker added that at the risk of severe flooding include “Communities along the flood plains of Rivers Donga, Benue and Ogun, in some states such as Osun, Delta, Cross River, Anambra, Taraba, Nasarawa and Kebbi, among others.”
Speaking on the motion, Whingan said, “The House is concerned that the predicted heavy rainfall and resulting floods could have devastating impacts on vulnerable communities, leading to displacement, loss of property, destruction of infrastructure, and potential loss of lives if adequate precautionary mechanisms are not put in place to protect citizens in these areas.
“The House is also concerned that despite early warnings, there may not be sufficient proactive measures such as timely evacuations, provision of temporary shelters, and support systems for affected communities. This increases the risk of severe humanitarian consequences if these warnings are not addressed through urgent action.
“We are aware that flooding is a recurring issue in Nigeria, often exacerbated by inadequate drainage systems, lack of preparedness, and insufficient coordination among agencies responsible for disaster management. It is crucial that relevant authorities immediately implement strategies to mitigate the predicted disaster, including evacuation plans, provision of relief materials, and ensuring post-flood recovery efforts are coordinated effectively.”
The motion was welcomed as members voted in support of it.
Following the adoption of the motion, the House called on the Federal Ministry of Environment and state governments “To activate evacuation protocols for communities along flood plains and ensure that affected populations have access to temporary shelters, medical services, and other forms of support.”
The legislative body also summoned the Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Emergency Management Agency and the Hydrological Services Agency to appear before it to explain what precautionary measures are being implemented to safeguard lives and property in the predicted flood zones.
This is just as it urged the Federal Ministries of Works, Housing and Water Resources to carry out “An immediate assessment of drainage systems and waterways in flood-prone areas and work to reduce blockages that could worsen flooding.”
The House also directed the federal government “Through its relevant ministries and agencies to collaborate with state governments to enhance their disaster preparedness capabilities and ensure the quick deployment of rescue teams, relief materials, and medical assistance where needed.”
The Green Chamber also mandated its Committee on Environment, jointly with the Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, and Water Resources to ensure ongoing monitoring and post-flood rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that affected communities receive long-term support in rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods.