FG to Relocate 10,000 Persons Ahead of 2023 Flood Season

The federal government (FG)has announced plans to move 10,000 people living within the River Benue basin of Mosun community in Bassa Local Government Area of Kogi State. This announcement comes ahead of the expected flooding during the rainy season of this year.

This was disclosed by the Managing Director (MD) of the Hydro-Electricity Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC), Alhaji Abubakar Yelwa. He also stated that the federal government’s decision was necessitated by the disastrous impact felt by members of the community during the 2022 flooding.

He said, “Here we are at the site, and you can see for yourselves the levels of damaging activities of the River Benue in these communities within Mosun kingdom. We have to do something to save their lives and make their lives worthwhile.” 

Yelwa details relocation plans

Yelwa hinted that the federal government will begin construction of buildings that would accommodate affected villagers in two weeks’ time. He noted that they are waiting for the traditional ruler and the Bassa Local Government authorities to show them the piece of land they will use for the project. 

The MD said, “as soon as the authorities show us the piece of land to relocate them, we shall begin construction work immediately. We are ready to move our equipment to the river banks to start work on controlling the ravaging erosive activities.”

Also, Yelwa expressed fears over the prediction of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Nimet on 2023 rain. According to Nimet, this year’s rain would be heavier than that of 2022, which may mean more floods than what was witnessed last year. Also, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) earlier told Nigerians t expect severe flooding.

Furthermore, the traditional ruler of the Mosun Kingdom, Alhaji Burka Ali revealed that about 10,000 people were displaced by the 2022 floods and appreciated the commission and the federal government for their love and concern. He expressed willingness to cooperate with HYPPADEC to ensure that the resettlement programme is successful.