The House of Representatives has invited relevant government agencies to reveal measures put in place to safeguard lives and property ahead of predicted floods.
The agencies are the Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
This summon is sequel to the adoption of a motion by Sesi Whingan (APC-Lagos State) at plenary on Wednesday.
Moving the motion earlier, Mr Whingan said the federal government predicted five days of heavy rainfall, which may lead to flooding in 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He said the identified locations most at risk of severe flooding include communities along the flood plains of Rivers Donga, Benue, and Ogun, in states such as Osun, Delta, Cross River, Anambra, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Kebbi, among others.
The rep said the rainfall and potential flooding, predicted from October 14 and 18, 2024, are threatening both life and property.
“Despite early warnings, there may not be sufficient proactive measures such as timely evacuations, provision of temporary shelters, and support systems for affected communities.
“This increases the risk of severe humanitarian consequences if these warnings are not addressed through urgent action.
“Flooding is a recurring issue in Nigeria, often exacerbated by inadequate drainage systems, lack of preparedness, and insufficient coordination among agencies responsible for disaster management,” he said.
He said it was crucial that relevant authorities immediately implement strategies to mitigate the predicted disaster, including evacuation plans, provision of relief materials, and ensuring post-flood recovery efforts are coordinated effectively.
The House urged the Federal Ministry of Environment and state governments to activate evacuation protocols for communities along flood plains.
The green chamber also called on the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing and the Ministry of Water Resources to immediately assess drainage systems and waterways in flood-prone areas and work to reduce blockages that could worsen flooding.
The legislators recommended that the federal government collaborate with state governments through its relevant ministries and agencies to enhance disaster preparedness capabilities.
In his ruling, the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, mandated the Committees on Environment, Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, and Water Resources to ensure continuous monitoring.
The committee is also to ensure post-flood rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that affected communities receive long-term support in rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods.
(NAN)
