The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has called on residents of Edo, particularly those living in low-lying areas, to relocate to safer grounds as the risk of severe flooding looms.

State Commandant of NSCDC, Mr. Gbenga Agun, issued the warning in Benin on Thursday via a statement by the command’s spokesperson, Efosa Ogbebor.

Agun said the warning followed a prediction by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) that heavy rainfall and flooding would persist through September and possibly into October.

“We are calling on all residents in flood-prone areas to take precautionary measures and relocate while there’s still time.

“It is better to act now than wait until lives and property are lost,” he said.

The commandant described the alert as a necessary move to mitigate the effects of natural disaster in the state, stressing the need for urgent sensitisation in vulnerable communities.

“This warning has become imperative considering the frequency and intensity of rains recorded so far in July.

“This situation demands urgent attention, and we must take sensitisation to the doorsteps of communities at risk,” he said.

He asserted that the NSCDC had already mobilised its Disaster Management Unit and instructed Divisional Officers in charge of high-risk areas such as Agenebode, Udaba, Anegbete, Ukpeko, Illushi, Oji, and others to begin immediate public enlightenment.

“These officers have been directed to move swiftly in educating the residents on flood preparedness, safe evacuation strategies, and how to minimise losses,” he said.

The NSCDC boss urged community leaders and local governments to support the campaign.

“We are ready to work hand-in-hand with local authorities and traditional rulers to ensure that the people are not caught unaware.”

The commandant also advised residents to remain alert, report early signs of flooding, and follow all official directives as part of efforts to reduce the humanitarian impact of the seasonal disaster. (The Guardian)