There is no immediate threat of flooding, according to Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, who urges the government to take action at all levels to prevent flood situations.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had noticed an increase in the volume of flow along the River Benue system, registering a flow level of 8.97 meters today, Utsev told newsmen in Abuja on Friday.
In comparison to a flow level of 8.80 meters on the same date in 2022, he claimed that this was negligible.
He claimed that data from inland dams like Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro also revealed a steady flow pattern.
“In Lokoja, the heightened flow volume along the River Benue system, the flow situation at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers in Lokoja, Kogi State, remains within normal parameters.
“The flow level at the monitoring station downstream of the confluence records 7.80 meters today, compared to 8.24 meters on the same date in 2022.
“As at today, there is no threat to lives and properties, especially those states that are contiguous to Rivers Niger and Benue.”
The minister called on all tiers of government to ensure preparedness and deploy appropriate measures to minimise the potential impact of flooding during the peak of the rainy season.
He called on states to increase sensitisation on the need for people living along the river banks to relocate to higher grounds during the peak period of rainfall.
“States and Local Governments should intensify efforts in clearing blocked drainages and also construct new ones where they do not exist.
“Removal of illegal structures constructed within the floodplains, the general public, especially road users, should desist from walking or driving through any pool of water or flood”.
The minister emphasized the need to recognize the season of prolonged rain, flooding, and disasters resulting from flooding, which normally happens in July, August, September, and October.
He claims that releasing water from the dam is essential for preserving its structural integrity and reducing floods in nearby areas.