Ogun State government has distributed relief materials to victims of flood disaster caused by torrential rainfall in Opako-Adigbe, Abeokuta.
Speaking during the exercise, held at the Trade Fair Complex, Laderin, Abeokuta, the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Shuaib Salisu, extended his condolences, saying the distribution was necessary to fulfil the promise of providing succour to residents of the State.
Governor Abiodun revealed that the distribution of relief materials would be the first time by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), saying that it had always been from Federal government through National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), noting that the urgency and empathy attached to the incidence, led to the quick provision and distribution, without waiting for the Federal government.
“This administration under Prince Dapo Abiodun will continue to provide succour to the masses, even without national assistance, such as this. This gesture is the first by the State”, he affirmed.
The Governor underscored the need for people to maintain clean environment, particularly clearing of drainages within their communities, saying that government had given approval for the reconstruction of box culverts in the affected areas across the State.
He enjoined residents to avert similar occurrence by planting trees and adhering strictly to other professional safety tips, when putting up new and additional structures, adding that there was no amount of materials that could totally ameliorate their loss.
Governor Abiodun assured that the damaged road, drainage and canal were under repair, as the road links at least three local governments.
Speaking earlier, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Tpl. Yetunde Dina, represented by the Director of Special Duties, Pastor Bola Orekoya said palliative measure being put in place was a testimony of government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens, advising the people to adhere strictly to environmental laws to prevent recurrence.
Appreciating the State government, Mrs. Esther Ibikunle, Mr. Micheal Olusobande and Special Apostle Emmanuel Adegoke, thanked the government for their support and prayed for God’s grace for them to do more.
Materials distributed include bundles of roofing sheets, bags of cement, bags of rice, mattresses, mosquito nets, soaps and variety of food items