Rising floodwaters are threatening several riverine communities across the Niger Delta, with residents in some affected areas beginning to relocate to safer locations.
The warning followed a recent patrol operation by the Riverine Security waterways team across parts of the region, where officers observed significant increases in water levels around the Bomadi waterways and other areas of Bayelsa State.
Captain Eric Foutoro, Officer in Charge of Waterways Patrol for Delta, Edo and Bayelsa states and Head of Riverine Security, said the situation had become increasingly difficult for some communities.
He disclosed that residents of Akugbene and Ogbuyema communities in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State were among those assisted by Riverine Security personnel after floodwaters rose considerably in the areas.
According to him, some residents had already started moving to neighbouring communities considered less affected by the flooding.
Foutoro said Riverine Security personnel remained prepared to support legitimate humanitarian and emergency operations involving government agencies, humanitarian organisations and other stakeholders working to assist affected communities.
He also urged people and organisations operating in riverine areas to observe necessary safety measures and maintain communication with relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, the Commander General of Riverine Security, Commander Bibi Oduku, called on the Federal Government and state governments in riverine areas to urgently provide accessible emergency locations and temporary shelters for people displaced by flooding.
Oduku expressed concern that residents of remote communities often face difficulties accessing emergency assistance during flood disasters.
He also called for greater transparency in the distribution of relief materials, urging government agencies and humanitarian organisations to work closely with credible local structures to ensure assistance reaches those most affected.
The Riverine Security chief further appealed to state governments to give sustained attention to communities in hard-to-reach riverine areas, particularly during emergencies.
He recommended improved evacuation arrangements, accessible emergency shelters and stronger waterways response systems as part of measures to protect residents from the impact of flooding.
Also speaking, Captain Oprom ThankGod, Head of Operations covering Rivers to Cross River states, said personnel under his command had assisted residents affected by flooding, including helping some people relocate to safer areas.
He said temporary relocation had become necessary in certain communities while affected residents awaited further assistance from relevant authorities.
The flooding concerns come amid broader warnings over rising water levels and the safety risks faced by people living and travelling around Nigeria’s waterways. Earlier safety advisories have warned that increased water levels can produce stronger currents and turbulence, raising the risk of boat accidents when proper precautions are ignored.
Riverine communities across the Niger Delta have therefore been urged to remain vigilant, follow safety instructions and move to safer locations where floodwaters pose an immediate threat to lives and property.
