Niger Delta
Flood: RSG Seeks Rivers’ Re-Classification
Member representing Emohua and Ikwerre Local Government Areas in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Andrew Uchendu and Secretary to the Rivers State Government, George Feyii have called on the federal government to review classification of the state from category ‘C’, since the flood has ravaged more communities than expected.
Uchendu and Feyii made their feelings public in a chat with newsmen at the weekend during President Jonathan’s visit to flood areas in Rivers State.
The federal lawmaker opined that it was necessary to review the categorisation which put the state at ‘C’ reasoning that the current scenario is far above assumption,” adding “ I have never seen such level of flooding in my life, but I think the federal government has braced up to the challenge’’.
He also condemned the Aluu 4 killing and called for more investigations into the matter.
Also speaking, Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Mr. Goerge Feyii expressed hope that the presidential visit will compel the federal government to review its classification, arguing that the flooding has become intense in the past weeks.
“ If by the time they end the visit, if there is need to review or need for further intervention, I’am sure the President would not hesitate,’’ he said.
He dismissed claims that the State Government was only providing snacks to flood victims, stating that it was not true as a television report had shown the Flood Relief Committee headed by Engr Tele Ikuru distributing bags of rice, salts, beans and clothings to flood areas.
In his view, Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area, Hon. Allen Nma lauded the federal and state governments for quickly coming to the aid of flood victims in the state.