Flood: Oweh sympathises with victims ~ Truth Reporters

...Promises DESOPADEC Support For IDPs

By Isaiah Ogunye

The DESOPADEC Commissioner representing Isoko Ethnic nationality, Dr Paul Oweh has assured victims of the ravaging flood to be strong and hopeful of a better tomorrow, saying that being displaced is a "temporary challenge."

The Commissioner who addressed the IDPs on Monday during a visit to ascertain their challenges promised that DESOPADEC as an interventionist agency will do anything possible to give support to the people.

He thanked the state government for swift response by providing the camps as well as taking care of them.

The Commissioner who was conducted round by Mr Owhofedjeke Vincent and Mrs Kome Omoefe, the Camp Commandants for Ozoro and Emede camps respectively, said his visit was to carry out "need assessment" and promised to be back with relief materials as soon as possible.

"It is sad the level of damages this ravaging flood has caused you. It is not easy for a family to leave outside your homes. But we know that with the timely alert that the state government raised, some you had a prepared mind knowing that your areas are prone to flood.

"So, we thank the government for the early notice which was enough to prepare your mind and providing the camps. I urge you to be calm and relaxed. It is just a temporary challenge.

"The purpose of this visit is to assess the needs of the people so as to enable us direct the limited resources to areas where it is most needed. DESOPADEC is an interventionist agency and we must stand with our people in this moment of trial," he said.

Speaking, the commandants thanked the state governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the Commissioner and the DEAOPADEC Board for the solidarity and support, assuring that the IDPs are in good condition and solicit further support of more government agencies, well meaning individuals and corporate bodies.

The camps have about 2000 persons in Ozoro and 3700 in Emede with 66 and 98 pregnant women respectively.

The camps have so far, received 3 deliveries, though lost one of the babies in Ozoro camp. The Commissioner during the visit presented gift items to the babies.

The Commissioner was accompanied on the visit by the Chairman of Isoko North Local Government, Hon Emmanuel Egbabor, Chief God'spower Obaro, who represented the DESOPADEC MD, Chief Askia Ogieh, Chief Philip Odubu, who represented the Isoko South Chairman, Sir Itiako C. Ikpokpo amongst others.