How diversion of N2 billion ecological fund caused Benue flood

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– Benue state capital, Makurdi has been submerged in flood since on Sunday, August 27

– The issue was caused by lack of action from the immediate past administration in the state

– More facts have emerged on why the situation has gotten worse

The chief press secretary to the Benue state governor, Mr. Terver Akase has said the diversion of N2 billion ecological fund the federal government released to the state in 2013 for the construction of drainage channels set the stage for the current flood ravaging mot parts of the state.

Mr. Akase stated this on Thursday, August 31 during an interview with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria on the flood that has hit parts of the state.

He said available records as uncovered by a commission of inquiry set up the government uncovered that N2 billion ecological fund was released to the state in December 2013, positing that if the money had not been diverted into private pockets but expended on the purpose it was meant for, the magnitude of the present flooding would have been averted.

Scenes from Benue state has been nothing but heartbreaking. Source: Twitter

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He stated that the Benue state government got Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NIMET’s) warning and swung into action, but was incapacitated by the current economic crunch in the country, noting that opening up of water channels commenced and adequate sensitization carried out.

While sympathizing with those affected by the flooding, Mr. Akase said the state government is saddened over the unfortunate development.

He stated however that the fight against flooding is a collective one that needs the cooperation of all Benue people by avoiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse, urging the people to also avoid blocking of drainages or building on waterways.

President Muhammadu Buhari has asked emergency workers in the country to immediately proceed to flood-ravaged areas of Benue state with personnel and resources.

Buhari, who is currently in Katsina state for the Sallah celebration, said he was concerned about the situation in the north-central state as over 100,000 people were rendered homeless.

A statement obtained from the presidency by ZENITHBLOG.com stated that the president said he received the reports of the flood which affected 12 local governments with great concern.

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Watch ZENITHBLOG.com TV interview with some of the victims of the Lekki flood in Lagos earlier in the year:

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