By
Edeniyere Abraham Osose
In a concerted effort to support disaster-affected communities, Edo State Government in collaboration with the Federal Government, has delivered food items to victims of a devastating rainstorm in Otuor, Ake and Afuze communities in Owan East Local Government Area (LGA) of the State.
The incident, which occurred in March, 2025, rendered hundreds of households homeless as violent winds tore through the communities, destroying residential buildings and displacing families. The intervention is part of a coordinated response led by the Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EdoSEMA) in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Speaking during the official handover ceremony of the relief items at Afuze, the Headquarters of the local government, the EdoSEMA’s Executive Secretary, Hon. Jerry Idahosa, stated that the initiative aligns with the vision of the State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo of prioritising the welfare of Edo people, and in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He disclosed that the items distributed included bags of rice, beans, maize, tomato paste, salt, and other essential food materials, aimed at cushioning the hardship brought about by the rainstorm.
Hon. Idahosa said that the distribution marked the first phase of the intervention with preparations underway for a second phase to provide further support to the victims. He emphasised that the process was transparent, with the items officially handed over to the Council Chairman, Hon. Mallam Aruna Mohammed, in company of the designated recipients to ensure fairness and accountability.
Hon. Mohammed while receiving the items, lauded the initiative and pledged to ensure that the materials reached the intended beneficiaries. He appreciated the Edo State and the Federal governments for their interventions, assuring that no affected person would be left out.
One of the beneficiaries, Pastor Aikhamokhai Sheidu, expressed gratitude to God and to the authorities, describing the day as a turning point for many who had endured months of hardship. He commended the integrity of the distribution process, noting that the materials were not diverted, an action that brought renewed hope and joy to the affected communities.
Meanwhile, several victims have appealed for further assistance, particularly as they seek to offset debts incurred during the aftermath of the disaster. Many explained that they had been forced to borrow money to purchase roofing materials in order to rebuild their homes and restore some normalcy.
The intervention underscores the ongoing commitment of the Edo State and the Federal Governments to strengthen community resilience and safeguard the welfare of citizens affected by natural disasters.
