Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has reassured the people of the state that his administration is fully prepared to handle any potential flooding that may occur due to the planned release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam. Speaking to State House correspondents on Thursday after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, Alia expressed hope that the flood wouldn’t happen but emphasized that the state is equipped to tackle it if necessary.
“We pray the flood doesn’t come, but if it does, we are definitely equal to the task,” Alia stated. His comments come in response to growing concerns from citizens, particularly those living in flood-prone areas of Benue State, about the potential for widespread flooding, a recurring challenge in the region.
Federal Warning on Lagdo Dam Release
Earlier in the week, the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, issued an alert regarding the imminent release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon. The agency warned that this action could result in severe flooding in several Nigerian states, including Adamawa, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Rivers.
The Lagdo Dam, located on the Benue River in Cameroon’s Northern Province, has long posed a threat to downstream Nigerian states whenever its excess water is released. The current warning has caused widespread anxiety, especially in the wake of recent flooding in Borno State, which led to the deaths of over 100 people and affected more than a million residents.
Benue, in particular, has historically been vulnerable to flooding due to its location along the Benue River. In past years, floods caused by water releases from the Lagdo Dam have displaced thousands of people, destroyed homes, and caused extensive damage to farmlands. However, Governor Alia assured that this time, his administration is better prepared to manage the risks and reduce the impact of any potential flooding.
Preparedness and Preventive Measures
In his statement, Governor Alia emphasized that his government is not simply waiting for the flood to arrive before taking action but is actively working to prevent or mitigate its effects. He noted that emergency management teams have been mobilized, and efforts are underway to raise awareness among residents, particularly those living in vulnerable areas along the riverbanks.
“We are not thinking about what to do when the floods come; we are prepared,” Alia said. “We are creating awareness for all our people. Our emergency management agency and team have the capacity to take charge, and they are already armed and ready to respond if necessary.”
The governor further highlighted that his administration is engaged in long-term planning to address the recurring flood risks posed by the Lagdo Dam and other environmental factors. One of the key solutions under consideration is the dredging of the River Benue, which would help prevent future flooding by increasing the river’s capacity to hold excess water. According to Alia, the state government is already exploring options for this project and is working closely with the Federal Government to secure the necessary support.
“There are several things on the table, including dredging the river,” Alia explained. “Before the Federal Government comes in to support us, we are exploring the best options. We are not just waiting; we are taking action now to protect our people.”
Addressing Risks in Flood-Prone Areas
Governor Alia also acknowledged the ongoing challenge of managing residents who continue to live in high-risk, flood-prone areas. While the government has been actively appealing to these individuals to relocate to safer locations, many remain resistant, choosing to stay near the river for various reasons, including economic activities and ancestral ties to the land.
“When you find such people, what do you do?” Alia asked. “You appeal to them, but if that doesn’t work, and they choose to stay, then they must understand the risks they are taking.”
The governor’s administration has continued its efforts to educate residents on the dangers of staying in flood-prone areas, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety over convenience or tradition. However, he made it clear that the state government cannot force people to move but will remain committed to assisting them if and when the floods occur.
Local Government Elections and Autonomy
In addition to flood preparedness, Governor Alia addressed questions concerning the recent Supreme Court decision on local government autonomy and his administration’s role in local elections. Some critics had accused the governor of interfering in the process by nominating candidates for local government chairmanship positions.
Alia defended the nomination process, insisting that it was transparent and inclusive. He explained that the selection of candidates was conducted fairly and in line with the principles of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party in the state.
“What we did was engage in a direct process,” Alia said. “Hardworking members of the APC were nominated. I believe the process was fair, although I understand that some people may be dissatisfied. We made efforts to give everyone a voice.”
He urged all candidates contesting in the upcoming October 5 local government elections to accept the results and respect the democratic process.
With flood preparedness measures in place and the upcoming local elections in focus, Governor Alia’s administration is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Benue residents while working on long-term solutions to address the state’s environmental and political challenges.
