Flood washes away graves in Edo

Igarra, the headquarters of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area in Edo State, has been hit by severe flooding following days of heavy rainfall. The deluge has resulted in widespread destruction, including the washing away of graves, the demolition of no fewer than 20 houses, and the tragic death of a motorcyclist.

Residents reported that the flooding submerged several houses for days, affecting areas such as Iretutu axis, Pope Francis Road, Okpe Road, Market Road, and Rest House Road. Graves located within residential compounds, including one on Okpe Road near the Igarra Police Station, were reportedly washed away. The private residence of Taiwo Akerele, former Chief of Staff to ex-governor Godwin Obaseki, was also affected.

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It was unfortunate that the motorcyclist was swept away by the flood and his corpse was discovered two days after.

Locals noted that the current flooding is reminiscent of a similar devastating incident that occurred exactly 10 years ago, which also claimed a life and destroyed numerous houses. The motorcyclist swept away by the flood was discovered dead two days after the incident, a fact confirmed by residents and local officials.

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We have taken records and communicated with SEMA and are also following up on it. We sympathise with the affected families while making plans to ameliorate the situation before us as a government.

Asebe Rabi, the councillor representing Ward 1, described the flood as devastating, highlighting the loss of property and livelihoods for many residents. The Chairman of the local government area, Alabi Oshionogue, confirmed that relevant agencies, including the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), have been notified.

Oshionogue stated that the local government is documenting the damage and working with SEMA to assist affected families. He has also directed immediate intervention efforts, including clearing drainages and removing debris deposited by the floodwaters across the affected areas, to mitigate the situation.

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I have directed the HOLGA and the HOD, Environment/Works, to carry out immediate intervention by clearing the drainages and removing the refuse and waste deposited by the flood across the affected areas.