No fewer than 770 households have been displaced by flood in Benue due to the rising water level that overflowed the banks of the River Benue, sparking a humanitarian crisis in the State.
Mr Aondowase Kunde, Benue Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, made the disclosure while briefing newsmen on Friday in Makurdi.
Kunde who is also the Chairman, Flood and Disaster Management Committee, said that Makurdi was worse hit by the flood. He said that the displaced persons were taking refuge in temporary camps.
“In most local government areas people managed to stay beyond the river banks, but in Makurdi, approximately 770 households were displaced.
“About 520 displaced households are taking shelter in NKST Primary School Wadata, while 250 are in Gaadi Comprehensive Secondary School.
“These individuals have been provided with food and non-food items, including mattresses, containers, and rice, with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) offering continued support over the past two weeks.
He expressed hope that with the receding water levels, the displaced persons should be able to return to their homes by next week.
Kunde stated that the governor had ordered another assessment of the affected areas to confirm whether they were habitable.
The commissioner said that some homes may need fumigation for potential dangerous reptiles like snakes as well as insects.
“As a temporary measure, the governed directed that we should assess and repair flood-damaged houses and ensure that they are well maintained before residents return to their homes.
“However, the government’s long-term plan is to construct houses in safer areas and relocate those living in flood-prone areas. The governor is committed to addressing these challenges, including post-flood recovery,” he said.