Farmers in Anambra State have begun harvesting their crops earlier than usual to avoid losses from an impending flood as the River Niger’s water levels rise due to upstream activities from neighboring countries.
Reports indicate that many farmlands in riverine and flood-prone areas of the state are already submerged due to continuous rainfall.
Chief Paul Odenigbo, the Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), provided an update on the situation on Tuesday. He warned that the water levels are increasing and could rise further due to activities in nearby countries. Odenigbo urged residents in riverine areas to be prepared to evacuate to higher ground when water levels rise.
He also pointed out that dredging the rivers or constructing dams by the Federal Government is the only permanent solution to the annual flooding crisis.
“The Anambra State Government has made necessary arrangements through the flood response committee, headed by the deputy governor, to ensure that those displaced by the flood will be adequately cared for during their stay in camps,” Odenigbo said.
SEMA has already begun cleaning and fumigating holding camps across the state to make them habitable for those likely to be displaced by the flood. Odenigbo praised the support from the Federal Government, particularly through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), but emphasized the need for further action, including damage assessment to ensure proper evaluation of the flood’s impact.
Designated internally displaced persons (IDP) camps have been set up in various locations, including Ayamelum, Anambra East, Ogbaru, Onitsha South, Onitsha North, Awka North, Ihiala, and Ekwusigo local government areas.
The Anambra State Government has warned that about 10 out of the state’s 21 local government areas may be affected by the impending flood. Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu, listed flood-prone areas such as Anambra East, Anambra West, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Awka North, Ihiala, Ayamelum, and Ogbaru. He advised residents in these areas to remain vigilant and prepare to relocate to safer grounds.
In separate interviews, residents and farmers from riverine communities confirmed that they have begun evacuating their produce as the River Niger’s water level continues to rise.
Ifeoma Nlebem, a resident of Ogbaru, a community close to the River Niger, said, “We have noticed that the water level is rising, and as predominantly farmers, we have started harvesting crops that are ready to avoid destruction.”
