By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Government has initiated the construction of a multi-purpose dam along the River Dura in Buruku Local Government Area, a strategic move aimed at controlling persistent flooding from the river that has disrupted local transportation and livelihoods.
At the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Robert Umezulike, Deputy Director of Hydrology, emphasized the difficulties caused by the overflow of River Dura during an inspection of the Makurdi-Gboko-Katsina-Ala highway on Saturday. He attributed the flooding to continuous sediment buildup in the river.
This buildup has significantly reduced the river’s capacity to manage heavy rainwater influx, resulting in frequent inundations, particularly on transport routes.
Umezulike assured that the ministry is working on assessing the flood situation comprehensively and will recommend actions to the Minister of Water Resources for prompt intervention.
“Our rivers have been rendered shallower due to sediment deposits, severely limiting their capacity. When rain falls, even in moderate amounts, the channels are unable to handle the excess water, leading to flooding,” he explained.
In light of the ongoing situation, the ministry has already contracted a study and design for a dam upstream of River Dura to serve as a reservoir to better manage water flow from the area.
Local leaders are echoing the urgency of this development. HRH Mathias Ager, District Head of Mbaakura Ward, expressed grave concerns over the flooding’s effects, noting how it has submerged homes, farmland, and other properties.
The district head emphasized that the highway has become increasingly problematic, appealing to the Federal Government to also rehabilitate the Makurdi-Gboko-Katsina-Ala road, which is currently rendered impassable at Abekwa settlement near the River Dura bridge.
Ager commended President Bola Tinubu for his appointments of Benue residents to key governmental positions, hoping that these officials will diligently support the president’s vision for the country.
He expressed confidence in their abilities, particularly those from the Tiv community, to deliver meaningful results.
Youth advocate Levinus Tyodoo also urged the government to prioritize road reconstruction, stating the dire need for improved access for motorists and agricultural transport.
He shared his frustration, recounting that his journey along the damaged stretch took an arduous two days instead of the usual ten-minute drive.
As the construction of the multi-purpose dam progresses, the community watches with hope for relief from the Flooding.