Flooding has once again left a trail of destruction across several parts of Delta State, submerging farmlands, destroying homes, and threatening livelihoods in multiple local government areas. Residents from affected communities are calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further ecological and humanitarian disasters.
In Igbide Kingdom, located in Isoko South Local Government Area, the annual flooding has devastated large swathes of farmland and residential property, leaving families displaced and agricultural activities in ruin. The kingdom, already grappling with recurrent environmental challenges, now faces growing concerns over food security as harvests are consistently wiped out by rising water levels.
Elsewhere, in the Aniocha North Local Government Area, communities including Ugboba, Ukwu-Nzu, and Obomkpa have sounded the alarm over what they described as an impending ecological catastrophe. Community leaders are appealing to the state government to act swiftly in order to mitigate the risk of further damage from erosion and unchecked water flow that now threaten homes, roads, and farmlands.
A similar crisis unfolded on July 8, 2025, in Ute-Okpu Kingdom, Ika North East LGA, where a sudden flash flood swept through Ibiegwa Quarters. Dozens of families were rendered homeless overnight, and the affected residents have since made passionate pleas for emergency assistance from both the government and philanthropic individuals.
Speaking from temporary shelter, Simon Aliemeke, a resident of Ibiegwa, described the flood as a life-altering tragedy. “My house is gone, my family is scattered, and we’re still trying to understand what happened,” he said.
In Lah, Oshimili North LGA, Mrs. Agnes Igbodo recounted the loss of her family’s cassava farm and fish pond. “Everything we worked for has been destroyed. This isn’t just about our property; it’s about our food and survival,” she lamented, warning that the floods are exacerbating the threat of hunger in already vulnerable communities.
Responding to the crisis, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing the growing environmental challenges across the state. Speaking through his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, during the presentation of Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Patrick Okpomor Agere I, the Ovie of Igbide Kingdom, the governor promised that lasting solutions would be pursued.
“We understand the hardship caused by recurrent flooding, and we are determined to find sustainable interventions,” he stated. “Our government will implement both immediate palliatives and long-term infrastructure projects to protect lives and livelihoods in these affected areas.”
While the state government’s assurance has brought a measure of hope, many residents remain anxious as they face an uncertain recovery and the looming threat of more rainfall. Advocacy groups and community leaders continue to urge proactive planning, including proper drainage systems, improved land management, and emergency response readiness to confront what is fast becoming a seasonal crisis in Delta State.
