Flood SackS Over 2 Million People From Their Homes In Kogi

Around two million people have been displaced from their homes in Kogi State due to flooding across 200 communities, according to reports.

During a press conference held in Kotonkarfe on Monday, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, described the dire humanitarian situation unfolding in the state. He noted that nearly two million people are now displaced, creating an urgent need for aid.

Governor Usman Ododo’s administration has formed a Flood Disaster Response Team to address the crisis, but Fanwo stressed that the state government is overwhelmed and needs immediate support from the Federal Government and international donors.

He urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to act swiftly, emphasizing that Kogi State is in a critical emergency.

Fanwo further explained that nine out of the state’s 21 local government areas, nearly half of the state, have been affected by the floods.

The disaster has submerged over 200 communities, destroyed infrastructure, and led to the establishment of 68 internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, which are insufficient to accommodate the displaced population.

Although no lives were lost due to early warning systems, schools, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure have been severely damaged.

Fanwo called on the Federal Government, international organizations, NGOs, and philanthropists to provide assistance, as the state struggles to manage the crisis.

The worst-hit areas include Lokoja, Adavi, Ofu, Ajaokuta, Idah, and Ibaji local government areas.