From Kayemo News
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ekiti State Chapter has called on the state government to urgently assist victims of the flood in Ado Ekiti with palliatives and address the cause of flooding.
This was contained in a statement by Amb. James Oluwasegun Bankole, Chairman
National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN)
Ekiti State Chapter.
Bankole who sympathised with victims, noted that the situation has become increasingly alarming, with residents, commuters, traders, youths, students, workers and families experiencing serious difficulties as floodwaters take over roads, communities and major access routes.
“I wish to use this medium to express the deep concern of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ekiti State Chapter, over the severe flooding currently affecting several parts of Ado-Ekiti and its environs.
“The situation has become increasingly alarming, with residents, commuters, traders, youths, students, workers and families experiencing serious difficulties as floodwaters take over roads, communities and major access routes. Of particular concern is the situation around some major roads and bridges, including the Ekiti Airport access route, where flooding has reportedly affected movement.
“As Chairman of the NYCN Ekiti State Chapter, I have received calls and messages from concerned young people and residents appealing for government intervention. Their concerns are genuine, and as the umbrella body representing young people across the State, we cannot ignore the voice and fears of our people at a moment like this.
“We sincerely acknowledge the efforts already being made by the Government of Ekiti State under the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, including previous interventions on flooding, drainage, waterways and disaster relief. The State Government has also recently intensified efforts to dredge and clear waterways, while urging residents to exercise caution during the continuing heavy rainfall.
“However, the present situation calls for urgent, coordinated and immediate response, particularly in areas where roads and bridges have become difficult or unsafe to cross.
OUR APPEAL
“On behalf of the young people of Ekiti State and the wider residents who have reached out to us, I respectfully appeal to the State Government and relevant emergency-management agencies to:
Intensify emergency response and monitoring in flood-prone communities.
Deploy personnel and appropriate safety equipment to critical flood points.
“Examine and urgently address blocked drainage channels and waterways.
Provide temporary measures where major roads and bridges become impassable.
Strengthen public warnings around dangerous bridges and flooded routes.
Ensure that vulnerable residents and affected families receive necessary emergency assistance.
“Sustain long-term investment in drainage, waterways, erosion control and flood-management infrastructure.
“This is not a political statement. It is a sincere appeal from the voice of the youth and from citizens who are currently experiencing the consequences of this situation.
“We recognise that flooding is a complex challenge involving rainfall intensity, drainage capacity, waterways, environmental practices and other factors. The solution therefore requires the combined efforts of government, communities, traditional institutions, residents and other stakeholders.
A MESSAGE TO OUR PEOPLE
While we appeal to government, we also urge residents to take personal safety seriously.
Please do not attempt to cross flooded roads, bridges or waterways when the water is fast-moving or the depth is uncertain. Move to safer and higher ground where necessary, follow official emergency warnings, and avoid unnecessary travel during severe rainfall.
We also appeal to residents to desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels and waterways and to avoid activities that obstruct natural watercourses.
The lives and safety of our people must remain our collective priority.
OUR COMMITMENT
The National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ekiti State Chapter, remains committed to being a responsible bridge between the youth, communities and government.
We will continue to listen to the people, communicate their genuine concerns and support every constructive effort aimed at protecting lives, property and the future of our State.
We appeal to the Government of Ekiti State: please hear the cry of our people and strengthen the emergency response to the present flooding situation.
This is a moment for compassion, urgency and collective action.
May God protect every resident of Ekiti State and keep our communities safe.