The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed officers and men to flood-affected and flood-prone areas across Ekiti State following days of heavy downpour that triggered flooding and erosion in several communities. This deployment was ordered by the State Commandant, Commandant Sotiyo Igbalawole Emmanuel, as part of the Corps' mandate to respond to emergencies, crises, and disasters. The operatives aim to cordon off danger zones, protect lives and property, and prevent further risks arising from the flooding.
The torrential rainfall resulted in flooding and erosion in several parts of Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, and other towns across the state. Some commuters were left stranded, and residential, business areas, and other locations were flooded. The NSCDC personnel were deployed to specific areas, including the Elemi River Bridge along the Ado–Afao Road, other bridges along the axis, and the Aayemi Garage Bridge along the Ado–Iworoko Road. These deployments were part of the emergency response efforts by the Corps to mitigate the effects of the flooding.
The operatives cordoned off the affected areas to prevent possible loss of lives and property while facilitating the smooth movement of traffic through alternative routes. They also engaged residents and communities in flooded and flood-prone areas, sensitising them on appropriate safety measures and the need to exercise caution during and after heavy rainfall. Emergency contact information was provided to facilitate prompt reporting and response to emergencies.
The State Commandant, Commandant Sotiyo Igbalawole Emmanuel, assured residents that the Corps would continue to take proactive measures and respond promptly and effectively to emergencies across Ekiti State. He called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with emergency responders whenever necessary, emphasising that collective responsibility remains critical to preventing avoidable disasters.
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Abiodun Oyebanji, sympathised with the families of the victims of the recent flooding that occurred at various sites in the state capital, Ado Ekiti. He called for concerted efforts to curb the menace of flooding in the state. Represented by his deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, the governor conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the flood-affected areas and met with NSCDC deployed operatives.
During the assessment, Chief (Mrs.) Afuye commended the NSCDC for its proactive response and the swift deployment of personnel from the Crisis and Disaster Management Unit to the affected areas. She urged the Corps to submit its official recommendations arising from the assessment to the State Government. The NSCDC Ekiti State Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring prompt response to emergencies across the state.
The NSCDC's efforts in Ekiti State demonstrate its crucial role as a first responder during emergencies, crises, and disasters. The Corps' proactive measures and rapid response have helped mitigate the effects of the flooding, and its continued engagement with residents and communities aims to prevent future disasters. The State Government's collaboration with the NSCDC underscores the importance of collective efforts in addressing the challenges posed by flooding and other disasters.
Key points
- NSCDC deploys operatives to flood-affected areas in Ekiti State
- Governor Oyebanji sympathises with victims' families and calls for concerted efforts to curb flooding
- NSCDC reaffirms commitment to protecting lives and property in Ekiti State
