The communities encompass Agenebode in the Etsako East Local Government Area (LGA), Anegbete in the Etsako Central LGA, and Illushi in the Esan South East LGA, with various riverine areas in the Ikpoba Okha LGA, Ovia North-East LGA, and Ovia South-West LGA.
During a recent announcement in Benin, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, conveyed that the Edo State Government has received notification regarding the planned release of regulated quantities of water into River Benue by the authorities of LAGDO DAM in the Republic of Cameroon. This action is being taken in response to the flooding caused by persistent and heavy rainfall.
The individuals residing in low-lying regions and locations near rivers, specifically in Agenebode, Anegbete, and Ilullshi within the local government areas of Etsako East, Etsako Central, and Esan South East, respectively, are advised to exercise caution and consider relocating to higher elevations.
Areas inside the Ikpoba Okha, Ovia North-East, and Ovia South-West regions have also been placed on high alert.
The Edo State Government has expressed its commitment to offering assistance to individuals who have been displaced from their residences due to the escalating water level resulting from the flood of the River Benue.
Due to our anticipation of this forthcoming event, it was imperative for us to promptly take action in order to guarantee the satisfactory condition of our Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, as well as to effectively inform and educate the residents.