ONC Holds Sensitisation Campaign On Flood Management And Control

Respected Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress, ONC, on Friday, 28th November, 2025, organized a major Sensitization Campaign on Flood Management and Control, bringing together traditional rulers, community leaders, government agencies, youth groups, women organizations, and security operatives for a united discussion on mitigating the recurring flood challenges across communities in Rivers State.

Delivering the keynote welcome address, the President General of the Orashi National Congress, Amb Comrade Emeni Ibe, underscored the urgent need for every stakeholder to actively participate in reducing the impact of seasonal flooding.

He noted that communities under the ONC influence—spread across Abua/Odual, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGAs—have suffered the destruction of homes, loss of farmlands, displacement of families, and disruptions of essential services due to persistent flooding. He described the area as the “inner chamber of the Niger Delta and the goose that lays the golden egg for the nation”, emphasizing the strategic importance of the region to Nigeria.

Amb. Emeni Ibe stressed that while government intervention remains vital, community responsibility is equally important. He urged residents to keep waterways clean, avoid dumping refuse in rivers and gutters, respond promptly to early warning signals, and support evacuation efforts when necessary.

He further highlighted environmental responsibility, the need for tree planting, proper land use, and the strengthening of community-based disaster committees, noting that an organized community is always more resilient in times of emergency. He also encouraged youths to take up active roles in awareness campaigns, clearing drainage systems, and supporting vulnerable households.

Ambassador Emeni Ibe also expressed deep appreciation to the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Her Excellency, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, for her continuous support to the Orashi National Congress and for her unwavering commitment to addressing the challenges posed by flooding in the region.

 

The sensitization event featured contributions from key agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), CJTF Ahoada and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Representatives from these bodies presented their perspectives on safety, early response, prevention, and inter-agency collaboration in managing flood-related emergencies.

A resource presentation was also delivered by Comrade Ewoh Isaac Richard, who provided practical insights on community preparedness and sustainable flood management techniques.

The campaign was attended with joy, appreciation, and profound gratitude as participants commended the Orashi National Congress for championing a cause that directly affects the lives and livelihoods of residents.

 

The ONC PG, Amb Ibe, while commending the Prof Ngozi Odu-Led Rivers State Flood Committee, security agencies especially the Police and other stakeholders however, he decried the lack of support by the Council Chairmen in the Orashi region to this noble initiative by the Congress not minding the fact that the ONC has been giving them huge support.

The event ended with a strong collective commitment to ensuring that the message of flood preparedness reaches every community, as the ONC continues to lead efforts geared toward building safer, more resilient communities in Rivers State.