By Oyem Jonathan
In a bid to mitigate the devastating impact of seasonal flooding, the Executive Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government , Hon. (Pastor) Jude Chukwunwike, has called for a united and proactive response from residents.
Chukwunwike made the appeal on Monday, June 22, 2025, while receiving officials from the Delta State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) at the council’s secretariat in Ogwashi-Uku.
Represented by the Vice Chairman,
Hon Patricia EkwutozamIn a bid to mitigate the devastating impact of seasonal flooding, the Executive Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government , Hon. (Pastor) Jude Chukwunwike, has called for a united and proactive response from residents. Adolue , the chairman commended SEMA’s timely intervention and ongoing efforts to sensitize vulnerable communities in preparation for the 2025 flood season. He described the agency’s visit as strategic, particularly as forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) warned of significant rainfall and potential flooding in parts of Delta State.
“SEMA’s presence here today is not only commendable but crucial. We must begin to see disaster preparedness as a shared responsibility. Flooding has claimed too many lives and properties in the past. We cannot afford to wait for another tragedy before we act,” Chukwunwike stated.
He specifically urged residents of flood-prone communities such as Olodu, Isheagu, and Ewulu to take the sensitization seriously, collaborate with emergency officials, and adopt safety measures to protect lives and property.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting SEMA team, Mr. Daniel C. Okpor explained that their working visit was part of a state-wide campaign aimed at educating citizens on practical, life-saving strategies for surviving flood emergencies. He emphasized that early warning, evacuation drills, proper drainage management, and community awareness are critical to reducing disaster risks.
“Our mission is to engage communities, spread accurate information, and ensure that no one is caught unprepared. Preparedness begins with knowledge,” Okpor noted.
The interactive session was attended by key local stakeholders, including Hon.prince Tony Ebube , secretary of the local government council,Hon. Samuel Ogidi, Councilor representing Ewulu Ward, and Hon. David Omah, Deputy Leader of the Legislative Arm.
Others present were Mr. Eugene Onwenenye, Mrs. Peggy A. Ogala, Mr. Anthony Efianya, Mr. Augustine O. Victor, Mr. Izudike Abass, and Mr. Kester Bien—who pledged to intensify public awareness campaigns in their respective communities.
Hon. Pastor Chukwunwike reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support for all disaster risk reduction initiatives and encouraged the people to prioritize safety above all else.
“Let us act now, not later. Protecting our communities from disasters is not just the government’s job—it is everyone’s duty,” he concluded.
The visit ended with a renewed commitment between the council and SEMA to continue working hand-in-hand to safeguard lives and build a more resilient Aniocha South.
