Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, NSCDC CG

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ebonyi State Command, Francis Nnadi, has urged residents living in flood-prone communities across the state to evacuate immediately to avoid potential disaster.

This urgent call, conveyed in a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, Emmanuella Ibeneme, comes on the heels of a severe flood alert issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

According to Commandant Nnadi, the agency’s latest assessment revealed rising water levels across river basins in the state particularly within the Ebonyi and Cross River systems signaling the likelihood of heavy flooding in the days ahead.

“There is an urgent need for residents in high-risk areas to relocate to safer ground. Failure to act now could lead to devastating loss of lives and property,” Nnadi warned.

Communities identified as being most at risk include Ikwo, Abakaliki, Ishielu, Ivo, and Afikpo South. The NSCDC noted that continued heavy rainfall and oversaturated waterways could trigger dangerous overflows, flash floods, and widespread destruction if preventive measures are not taken swiftly.

In response, the commandant has directed the Disaster Response Unit of the Corps to swing into action by deploying emergency teams to vulnerable areas, initiating public awareness campaigns, and sensitizing communities on safety protocols.

He also instructed the immediate collaboration with local government authorities and traditional rulers to ensure that residents comply fully with relocation directives and safety advisories.