The FCT Minister of State, Haj Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu yesterday, at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari and the federal government to aid the Kogi state government in relief materials and necessary support to ameliorate the suffering of the people, especially as we fear a possible outbreak of communicable diseases.
“They need shelter, food, and clean water because their situation is worsened when access to shops and hospitals is by canoes and ferry boats. Houses are submerged to the roof-top, while most smaller buildings are completely submerged.
“However, I must commend the Kogi state government’s decision to evacuate persons living along the low plains; as the water level keeps increasing, I appeal to the Federal Government for immediate intervention before the flood gets to the upper land.
“Also, the Lokoja/Abuja expressway, a major link between the north and southern parts of the country, has been experiencing heavy gridlock, especially around the Koton Karfe area before the bridge due to the flood. As a result, significant hours are wasted by commuters on the road.
“I also seek the support of the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, H.M. Sadiya Umar Farouq, who has always been there for areas in dire need, to look into this for quick intervention” she said.