By Grace Samuel
Senator Abbas Iya has voiced his deep concern regarding the recurrent flooding caused by the River Benue, which poses threats to food security, leads to the destruction of farmlands, and results in the loss of lives and properties.
During a plenary session held on Monday, November 6, 2023, in Adamawa State, Senator Iya raised this critical issue, stressing the need for urgent action to prevent further disasters.
The River Benue, an international waterway originating in Cameroon and flowing through Adamawa, Taraba State, Makurdi in Benue State, and eventually meeting the River Niger in Lokoja, was the focus of his attention.
Senator Iya’s presentation, titled “Need to Prevent Loss of Lives Caused by Floods and Dredging of River Benue in Adamawa State,” highlighted the significant impact of climate change on the water level of the River, leading to recurrent floods in Adamawa State due to inadequate dredging.
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He cited a distressing incident in which only 32 boats attempting to cross the River Benue were rescued after capsizing at Garin Alhaji, while the remaining occupants were displaced.
In response to this critical issue, the Senate has pledged to advocate for the inclusion of the dredging of the River Benue in the 2024 budget to mitigate and manage future disasters.
An appropriation bill will be passed to address the perennial flooding issues across the affected states.
Furthermore, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been urged to provide relief materials to support the flood victims and create awareness campaigns to educate the public on the risks associated with crossing rivers, especially after heavy rainfall.
The National Inland Waterways Authority has also been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the causes of boat mishaps in the state and proposing viable solutions to prevent such incidents in the future.
Senator Abbas Iya’s expression of concern and the Senate’s commitment to addressing the flooding issue associated with the River Benue underscore the importance of proactive measures to safeguard lives, property, and food security in the affected regions.
