The political pressure group in a statement signed by former minister of water resources and its secretary, Barr. Mukhtari Shehu Shagari, urged the APC-led federal government to assist Benue State, which is the worst hit.
According to the group, “As Texas was dealing with Hurricane Harvey, Benue, Adamawa, Katsina among some states in Nigeria experienced torrential rainfall with some local government areas and towns wrecked by unprecedented flooding. The leadership of PDP Rescue Group, a political pressure group has expressed its sympathy with the Governments and people who are affected by the devastation.
“Benue State is worst hit by this devastation and in a related message to the government and people of Benue state, particularly the victims and families who lost their loved ones, houses, farm lands and other properties, our thoughts and prayers are with them. Politics aside, it must be noted that when one section of the country is in pain we are all in pain because we are one people with common destiny.”
The group noted that this devastation has triggered untold hardship, diseases and conditions beyond the capacity and scope that the state government and people alone could handle. Available records indicate that over 25 communities including the state capital, Makurdi, are extremely affected.
The PDP group also called on the federal government of Nigeria, Development Agencies and organizations to offer assistance to Benue State to deal with the extreme situation at hand.
The group said, “We wish to commend the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for a quick comprehensive report of affected areas with statistics of number of houses, families and persons displaced. However, we continue to insist on advocacy to clear flood plains and the state government to make available development plans and adhere to strict implementation.
“Nigeria meteorological department predicted that some states will experience flooding during this time of the year. All the LGA affected were among the six mentioned. This calls for caution and action to ensure that our strategies for emergency should be strategic, wholistic and quick. The recent flooding around the world are clear signs of the negative impacts of climate change.
“It is our duty and responsibility to preserve nature, desist from plundering natural resources and enhance quality of life.”
