Flooding in Abia Community Claims Lives and Destroys Homes

A severe flood devastated Ugwueke Community in Bende Local Government Area, resulting in at least three reported deaths and extensive destruction of homes and farmlands. The flooding was triggered by torrential rainfall that began on September 21 and lasted for approximately two days.

Residents awoke to widespread damage, with crops submerged and the main access road completely blocked, hindering movement in and out of the area. Community members expressed that such a disaster had never occurred before.

One resident reported losing a relative to the floodwaters and urged government authorities to prioritize healthcare services and potable water, which are critical in managing the aftermath. Chijioke Chukwu, representing the South-East on the Board of the North-West Development Commission and chair of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State, called for calm and confirmed that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) had been notified to respond.

Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and member representing Bende Federal Constituency, extended condolences to affected families and assured that efforts would be made to address the flooding's impact.