By Samuel Olusegun Precious
The Orashi National Congress (ONC) has declared a flood emergency in Orashi Nation, as communities in Abua/Odual, Ahoada East, Ahoada West and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA) remain submerged following recent downpour.
ONC, the apex socio-cultural organization of Orashi people, said Rivers Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, who chairs the Rivers State Flood Prevention and Management Committee, herself declared Orashi as the most flood-impacted region in the state.
In a press release on Thursday signed by its President General, Amb. Comrade Emeni Ibe, the group gave an update on the situation:
Abua/Odual: Still Submerged
Despite the recent delivery of 150 bags of rice, 500 bags of beans, 200 mattresses and free health insurance enrollment to prevent cholera by the state government, many communities are still underwater.
Ahoada East: Health Centre Submerged
The health centre in Ogbele community is completely submerged, paralyzing healthcare delivery. ONC had earlier raised the alarm calling for evacuation and establishment of a temporary health post.
The group said Ahoada West and the Egi axis of ONELGA are also among the worst-hit LGAs in the state, alongside Eleme, Oyigbo and Port Harcourt City, with NEMA identifying affected areas for relief.
ONC Demands:
While commending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Prof. Odu for interventions in Abua/Odual and ONELGA, ONC said more urgent action is needed:
“Farmlands, schools, homes and roads are submerged. Our people are exposed to cholera and waterborne diseases,” the statement read.
ONC therefore called for: Immediate establishment of IDP camps and temporary health posts in Ogbele, Abua Central and Ahoada West; Deployment of emergency medical teams and cholera prevention kits; Corporate intervention by Aradel Holdings, Agip, TotalEnergies and NDDC as part of their CSR to host communities; Urgent dredging and desilting of Orashi River and blocked drains.
The Congress assured the Rivers State Government of its partnership and urged Orashi sons and daughters to remain calm and vigilant.
