The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to provide urgent relief materials to the Ekeke and Amoya-Otuo communities in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State, which have recently been displaced due to severe flooding.
The resolution of the House was made following the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, during Wednesday’s plenary session.
In support of the motion, Prof. Ihonvbere stated, “The House expresses deep concern over the unprecedented flooding that devastated Ekeke-Erah, as well as the severe windstorm that impacted Ake, Amoya-Otuo, and other communities in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State. These disasters have resulted in widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, including a bridge in Ekeke, farmlands, and livelihoods.
“The House further notes that these affected communities have been plunged into complete darkness due to the flood’s destruction of electric poles and damage to solar street lights.
“We acknowledge the urgent need for emergency assistance in these communities, including the provision of relief food, medical supplies, and the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure.”
He commended the Edo State Government, the Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly and the Local Government in responding to the disaster, stressing however “That the magnitude of the disaster requires additional support from the Federal Government.”
The motion enjoyed overwhelming support from lawmakers present at Wednesday’s plenary and was subsequently adopted.
The House thereafter urged the National Emergency Management Agency to provide immediate relief materials, including food, water, blankets, mats, shelter, and medical supplies, to the affected communities.
It so charged the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to urgently respond to the needs of the people of Ekeke-Erah, Ake, Amoya-Otuo and other communities affected by the disasters.