The Benue State Government has mobilized traditional rulers, religious leaders, media outlets, and key community stakeholders to strengthen emergency preparedness ahead of the anticipated flood disaster in the state.

This collaborative effort aims to safeguard lives and property by ensuring timely dissemination of early warnings and mitigation strategies to vulnerable communities. Sir James Iorpuu, Acting Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), shared these details on Wednesday during a flood sensitization visit to the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, the Och’ Idoma Palace, and Joy FM Otukpo.

Iorpuu highlighted the crucial role of partnerships, especially between SEMA and the diocese, in boosting humanitarian response and disaster readiness. “We are here to inspect the conditions of designated shelters, like St. Francis School in Otukpo, which will serve as a temporary home for those displaced by the coming floods,” he explained.

Most Rev. Michael Apochi, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, expressed gratitude for the visit, reaffirming the church’s commitment to assisting flood victims. He emphasized the church’s ongoing role in national development and its capacity to provide material, spiritual, and emotional support to affected communities.

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During a visit to HRM Chief John Obagaji Odogbo, Iorpuu sought royal blessings and the continued backing of the traditional council in helping the Idoma people cope with the impact of the floods. He urged traditional rulers to raise awareness on disaster preparedness and to promote peace between displaced individuals and host communities.

The Och’ Idoma, Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo John, acknowledged the cultural challenges of living in camps but pledged to work with the government. “It is against Idoma tradition to live in camps and rely on others for food, no matter how organized the situation may be,” he noted, while still assuring his support.

The SEMA team also stopped by Joy FM Otukpo to raise public awareness about the imminent flooding. Mrs. Ogli Christabel Ebugo, the station’s General Manager, appreciated the agency’s efforts in keeping the public informed and prepared.