In anticipation of potential flooding from the possible release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, state governments in Benue, Edo, and Bayelsa have activated precautionary measures to mitigate disaster risks—even as federal authorities clarify that no release has yet occurred.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had earlier predicted intensified seasonal rainfall, raising concerns about flooding, particularly in riverine communities. Though the Federal Ministry of Water Resources has denied the release of water from the dam, affected states say they are not taking any chances.
In Benue State, the Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has intensified flood sensitisation campaigns across the state. According to SEMA’s Information Officer, Tema Ager, the state is acting on high alert despite confirmation from the Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev, that there has been no release from Lagdo Dam.
“We have no official report of water release from Cameroon, but we are not waiting to be taken by surprise,” Ager said, adding that awareness jingles have already been rolled out across local radio stations to alert residents.
In Edo State, the Executive Director of the State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency, Ahmed Momoh, said the government has taken preemptive steps to inspect erosion-prone areas in the Edo North axis. He confirmed that while the state has not received any formal notification of water discharge, preparations are underway to manage any spillover effects.
“We remain on standby. Our strategic inspection of gully erosion sites is part of our proactive approach to limit environmental degradation,” Momoh said.
Similarly, in Bayelsa State—which bore the brunt of devastating floods in 2012 and 2022—the Directorate of Flood and Erosion Control confirmed it is on standby. The head of the agency, Walson Omusu, said while there has been no official alert, the state is prepared. He noted that water channels in Yenagoa and other vulnerable areas have already been cleared to reduce the impact of any flooding.
“We are always ready. Even without official notice, our systems are in place,” Omusu stated.
Meanwhile, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has begun distributing relief materials to flood-affected communities in Bayelsa. During a visit to Otuasega and Oruma, NDDC’s Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said the gesture aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to the region’s well-being.
Represented by Mrs. Chioma Nwakwe, the Deputy Director of Education, Health, and Social Services, Ogbuku noted that the support included school furniture, educational tablets, and household relief items. He said the initiative was carried out in partnership with the Ednest Egerue Foundation.
Foundation founder Susan Ibiama commended the NDDC’s efforts, describing the collaboration as a timely intervention for communities grappling with economic loss due to floods.
Community representatives, including Mr. Innocent Abbey of Otuasega and Mr. Akaribo Lamanya of Ngbiama-Oruma, expressed gratitude, pledging to ensure fair distribution of the materials.
As flood season deepens and with rainfall intensifying, state governments and agencies are urging residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant and adhere to safety advisories.
