Mbula communities in Adamawa State have cried out over perennial flooding that resulted in the destruction of lives and properties, calling on the federal government to address the menace permanently.
At a world press conference, the national association of Mbula youths said they could not continue to live on relief packages every time there was flood, noting that what was required was a permanent solution.
Addressing the press Thursday, in Yola, the spokesman of the youth, Emmanuel Nathaniel Ali urged the federal government to revisit the construction of Dasin Hausa Dam that was recommended since 1980’s, in addition to the dredging of the River Benue so that Mbula people and many other communities living along river Benue bank could have some respite.
Ali noted that the Mbula communities cut across many local governments in the state, including Demsa, Girei, Numan, Shelleng, Yola South and in Taraba State.
“It is no news that year in year out, our people are left at the mercies of the elements of nature when the rivers overflow its banks. This is so because of the annual release of excess water from Lagdo Dam in Cameroon Republic and Kiri dam in Shelleng local government.
“The release does not only affect the Mbula communities but extends to other states of the federation.
“According to the permanent secretary of the federal, ministry of humanitarian affairs, disaster management and social development, Mr. Sani Gwarzo, the 2022 flood has so far wreaked havoc in 31 states of the federation and the FCT.
“As we address the world today over this plague, it is sad to note that most communities in Mbula are still flooding. People have been displaced, farmlands completely washed away, our houses destroyed and flattened to the ground. We cannot continue to suffer like this.
“This situation is controllable. Our people can no longer continue to live on relief materials each time flooding occurs. Something has to be done drastically and in the right direction to curtail this monster, otherwise no one knows the level of damage it would cause tomorrow.
“From Mbula Kuli to Borrong, Dilli and Dwam are all taken over by flood. Some of our people as we speak, sleep outside in the harsh whether conditions because their houses have been destroyed,” he lamented.