MOTION OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE ON THE NEED TO ADDRESS THE PERENIAL FLOODING CRISIS IN NDOKWA/UKWUANI FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY

On 23rd October 2024, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, presented a motion of urgent public importance before the House of Representatives, calling for immediate federal intervention to address the ongoing flooding crisis in his constituency. The motion focused on the severe flooding currently affecting Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, and Ukwuani Local Government Areas of Delta State, with multiple communities already displaced and critical infrastructure damaged.

Hon. Ezechi emphasized that the 2024 flooding has begun earlier than anticipated, affecting key communities such as Utchi, Abala, Okpai, Beneku, and Aboh, among others. He highlighted the devastating impact of the flooding on homes, farmlands, schools, and essential public infrastructure. Despite past efforts by both federal and state authorities, the recurring flooding crisis continues to worsen due to inadequate flood management systems, poor drainage, and the absence of long-term mitigation measures.

The motion raised concerns about the escalating humanitarian crisis, noting that if immediate action is not taken, the situation will deteriorate further, leading to increased poverty, food insecurity, displacement, and loss of lives. Hon. Ezechi called for a coordinated response involving key agencies to provide short-term relief and long-term flood prevention measures.

In response, the House resolved to:

1. Urge the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), to conduct an immediate technical assessment of the flooding in Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency and develop a comprehensive flood control plan.

2. Call on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to deliver urgent relief materials such as food, shelter, and medical supplies to the displaced communities.

3. Mandate the Ecological Fund Office to release necessary funds for erosion and flood control in Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, and Ukwuani LGAs, with a focus on sustainable drainage systems and riverbank protection.

4. Direct the House Committees on Environment, Disaster Preparedness, and Water Resources to oversee the implementation of flood mitigation strategies and ensure adequate resources are allocated for both immediate and long-term solutions.