Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has expressed concern over the devastating flooding that has affected several communities in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, reportedly leaving two people dead and several homes submerged.
The flooding occurred following two days of torrential rainfall in Ugwueke, Amaokai, Amaeze and Ezeukwu communities, which are part of Bende Federal Constituency represented by Kalu.
Several residential buildings and other properties were reportedly affected by the rising floodwaters, with the palaces of two traditional rulers also said to have been submerged.
The affected palaces include those of Eze Ifeanyi Owo of Amaeze Community and Eze Gilbert Chukwu of Amaokai Community.
Reacting to the incident, Kalu, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, described the flooding as tragic and heartbreaking, while commiserating with the families of the reported victims and residents whose homes and properties were affected.
The Deputy Speaker appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Abia State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene by providing relief materials and other necessary support to residents affected by the disaster.
He said immediate assistance was necessary to cushion the impact of the flooding on affected families and communities.
Kalu also assured residents of his continued efforts to engage relevant federal agencies over the ecological challenges confronting parts of Bende Federal Constituency.
According to him, such engagements are aimed at securing interventions to address the environmental problems in the area and reduce the risk of similar disasters occurring in the future.
Bende Federal Constituency has faced persistent ecological challenges, with Uzuakoli Electoral Ward among areas that have recorded significant damage, including the loss of lives and destruction of buildings.
The latest flooding has renewed concerns over the need for emergency assistance for affected residents as well as longer-term measures to address the ecological challenges confronting vulnerable communities in the constituency.
Kalu prayed for the peaceful repose of those who lost their lives and wished the affected residents strength and a speedy recovery from the impact of the disaster.
