Benue: Heavy rainfall submerges houses, roads in Makurdi

On Monday, Benue State's capital, Makurdi, was submerged by heavy rainfall that lasted over nine hours. The persistent downpour inundated numerous houses and roads, causing widespread disruption for residents and commuters. Achussa, New GRA, Radio Benue areas, and other sections like Nyiman, Idye, Naka Road, North Bank, Ankpa Quarters, Tilley Gyado-Terwase Agbadu, Wurukum, and Wadata were among the localities affected.

Residents reported that floodwaters infiltrated their homes, causing damage to personal belongings and food items. Motorists and other travelers faced significant challenges as flooded streets hindered normal traffic flow. A resident named Agbo Benedict pointed to potential drainage system blockages stemming from ongoing road construction as a contributing factor, urging Governor Hyacinth Alia to intervene and clear the blockages.

Angela Ortyon, another resident, acknowledged the assistance of existing drainage projects but attributed the severity of the flooding to the numerous construction activities across the city. She noted that blocked roads and drainage channels, often due to construction company actions, exacerbated the situation in affected areas.

Despite the flooding, officials from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) had not yet conducted site visits to assess the damage. The agency confirmed receiving reports of the flood in Achussa but has not yet dispatched personnel to the area.