In response to the increasing threat of flooding in Imo State, Chief Dr. Fidel Onyeneke, a former Special Adviser to the Imo State Governor on Orientation, has called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to intensify their efforts in raising awareness about flood prevention and preparedness.
Chief Onyeneke made this call during a press briefing in Owerri on Sunday, where he emphasized the need for rural dwellers to be properly educated on precautionary measures against flooding.
He highlighted the importance of proactive measures such as clearing waterways of refuse and other obstructions.
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Expressing concern over the apparent lack of preparation among residents, Chief Onyeneke urged both state and local governments to provide support to vulnerable communities. He suggested the establishment of make-shift camps in riverine areas to provide emergency shelter for those displaced by floods.
Furthermore, Chief Onyeneke called on government agencies and non-governmental organizations to engage in extensive public awareness campaigns.
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He stressed the importance of educating the public on ways to protect the environment and farmland from the destructive effects of flooding.
As the rainy season intensifies, Chief Onyeneke’s plea serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of flooding in Imo State.