The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued an urgent warning to residents of Edo State, especially those in flood-prone areas, to relocate immediately as the threat of severe flooding looms.
The alert follows predictions by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), which forecast heavy rainfall and potential flooding to continue through September and possibly extend into October.
In a statement signed by the NSCDC's spokesperson, Efosa Ogbebor, the State Commandant, Mr. Gbenga Agun, stressed the urgency of the situation.
“We are calling on all residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to take precautionary measures and relocate while there’s still time,” Agun said. “It is better to act now than wait until lives and property are lost.”
Describing the alert as a proactive step to prevent disaster, Agun emphasized the unusual frequency and intensity of rainfall already recorded in July, noting that the situation demands immediate community-level sensitization.
To this end, the NSCDC has mobilized its Disaster Management Unit and directed Divisional Officers overseeing high-risk communities — including Agenebode, Udaba, Anegbete, Ukpeko, Illushi, and Oji — to begin immediate public enlightenment campaigns.
“These officers will educate residents on flood preparedness, safe evacuation strategies, and ways to minimise damage,” he added.
Agun also called for the support of traditional rulers, community leaders, and local government authorities to strengthen the campaign and ensure widespread awareness.
“We are ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure people are not caught off guard,” he stated.
The commandant further advised residents to stay alert, report any early signs of flooding, and strictly follow official directives to help reduce the potential humanitarian toll of the seasonal disaster.
