The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to provide immediate relief materials to the Ekeke and Amoya-Otuo communities in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State, which were recently displaced by flooding. This directive follows the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by House Leader, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, during Wednesday’s plenary.
Prof Ihonvbere expressed concern over the unprecedented flooding disaster that affected several communities in Owan East Local Government Area, resulting in widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, farmlands, and livelihoods. He noted that the affected communities have been plunged into total darkness due to the flood damaging electric poles and solar streetlights.
The House recognized the dire need for emergency assistance, including relief food, medical materials, and reconstruction of damaged infrastructure. While commending the Edo State Government, the Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, and the Local Government for their response to the disaster, Prof Ihonvbere emphasized that additional support from the Federal Government is necessary.
The motion received overwhelming support from lawmakers, and the House subsequently urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials, including:
– Food and water
– Blankets and mats
– Shelter
– Medical supplies
The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs was also charged with responding urgently to the needs of the affected communities. This development comes after Edo State has experienced recurring flooding issues, with the state government and NEMA previously providing relief materials to affected communities.
