Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
The Benue State House of Assembly has taken swift action to address the devastating flood disaster affecting communities in Buruku and Ushongo Local Government Areas. During a recent plenary session, presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Aondoaver Berger Alfred Embergera, lawmakers passed resolutions urging the state government to assess the damage and provide immediate relief to the affected regions.
The motion, brought forward as a matter of urgent public importance, was co-sponsored by Hon. Abraham Zahemen Jabi, representing Buruku State Constituency and deputy majority leader, and Hon. Simon Gabo, deputy majority whip from Mata State Constituency. The duo highlighted the severity of the situation, reporting that on October 13, 2025, the Ambila Stream in the Mbaya Council ward of Buruku Local Government Area overflowed due to heavy downpours. This led to the submersion of Ortese, Mbaatsua, and Ikyaa villages, with a locally made bridge linking the two areas being washed away.
Further reports indicated that the Usaaese I stream along Tsumba-Tse Gabo road, as well as Il and Mbelee streams in Mbagba district, Ushongo Local Government Area, have also suffered significant damage from floods and gully erosion. Major portions of a 2km road linking these communities have been destroyed, exacerbating the plight of residents.
Lawmakers expressed deep sorrow over the disaster and called on the state government to intervene swiftly to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities. The Assembly also received a letter from Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, requesting approval for a supplementary budget to finance infrastructure development across the state. Following extensive deliberation, Speaker Embergera referred the request to the House Standing Committee on Budget and Appropriation for further legislative scrutiny.
In a coordinated effort, the Assembly has called on the Bureau of Special Projects and Rural Access and Marketing Projects (RAAMP) to conduct on-the-spot assessments of the destroyed bridges and roads in Mbaya and Mbagba districts. The agencies are tasked with developing plans to reconstruct these critical infrastructures to ease movement for affected residents.
Additionally, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been urged to undertake detailed assessments of the flood-ravaged areas and provide on-the-ground support. The Assembly’s resolutions emphasize the need for a comprehensive response to mitigate the ongoing crisis and support the victims.
As the state grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster, the call for solidarity and government action grows louder. The Benue State House of Assembly remains committed to ensuring that the voices of the affected communities are heard and addressed promptly.
Reported by Zape Michael Upaa, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, BSHOA.
