Flooding: Anambra assembly summons commissioners, others

The Anambra State House of Assembly has summoned key government officials, including commissioners, to address the escalating flood disasters across the state. The summons follows persistent rainfall that has submerged numerous houses, markets, business premises, and farmlands in flood-prone communities.

The heavy flooding, exacerbated by rising water levels from the River Niger, has devastated communities in Ogbaru, Idemili North, and Oyi Local Government Areas. Areas like Relief Market, Ochanja Market, Building Materials Market Ogidi, and parts of Onitsha have been severely impacted. Videos circulating online show two individuals missing and feared drowned at the Building Materials Market, with floodwaters damaging roads and sweeping away fences.

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I am a poultry farmer. The flood has swept away most of my birds. I had waited to relocate them, but the flood came suddenly. It has ruined my hopes and wasted my labour.

Residents in affected communities are stranded, seeking refuge in upland areas. Many have lost their livelihoods, including poultry farmers like Chinyere, who reported the loss of most of her birds to the sudden flood. "I had waited to relocate them, but the flood came suddenly. It has ruined my hopes and wasted my labour," she lamented, highlighting the financial strain of borrowed capital.

The state Assembly's resolution to invite officials stems from concerns over the increasing dangers and devastating effects of flooding. Commissioners for Environment, Physical Planning and Urban Development, and Works and Infrastructure are expected to appear before the Assembly on Thursday, June 25, 2026. The Minority Leader, Johnbosco Akaegbobi, emphasized the destructive impact on lives and property, citing blocked drainages and poor environmental practices as contributing factors.

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Several residents have continued to suffer losses due to blocked drainages and poor environmental