The Amaeke Ngwo community in Udi Local Council of Enugu State is displaying unwavering resilience as they battle the relentless forces of nature. In recent weeks, the community has faced a formidable challenge as incessant floods have surged through their homes, farmlands, and livelihoods, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.
Approximately 30 homes, economic trees, farmlands, and livestock have fallen victim to the unrelenting waters. Despite the community’s best efforts to implement flood control measures, the local topography has exacerbated the situation, intensifying the damage. The Ifueke and Ibute Ameke Ngwo communities, situated at the lowest points of the landscape, have borne the brunt of the calamity.
Augustine Agu, the President General of Amaeke Ngwo, has been at the forefront of the community’s response. He highlights the immense challenges posed by floodwaters surging from regions such as Abor, Uboji, Okwojo, Umuase, Nsude, Amankwor, and the 9th Mile areas. These torrents have demolished buildings, uprooted trees, and disrupted lives, underscoring the vulnerability of these communities to the forces of nature.
Despite the uphill battle, the community remains determined. Appeals for assistance have been made to various authorities, including the President, Senate President, and government agencies at both federal and state levels. While the response has been limited, Amaeke Ngwo continues to seek support.
Ikechukwu Ani, an Amaeke community member and spokesperson for the Police Service Commission, has sounded the alarm. He highlights the urgent need for intervention from both the government and the private sector, emphasizing that houses, agricultural fields, and businesses have been submerged in this ecological disaster.
Amaeke is a unique community, home to several high-tech companies, including Ama Brewery, 7up bottling company, Coca Cola, Aqua Rapha, and various financial institutions. These businesses play a pivotal role in the local economy, providing employment and economic opportunities for residents. The ongoing flooding crisis has disrupted their operations, adding to the challenges faced by the community.
While the community’s appeals for aid have been made, they remain hopeful that the support they urgently need will arrive in time to mitigate the ongoing ecological disaster. The Acting Head of Southeast Zonal Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ngozi Echeazu, is expected to respond upon her return from official duty.
Amaeke Ngwo’s resilience in the face of adversity serves as a testament to the strength and unity of the community. As they continue to grapple with the devastating consequences of the flooding, they stand firm in their determination to rebuild and recover. Their appeal for assistance is a call to action, and they remain hopeful that help will soon arrive to alleviate their suffering.
Source: [The Guardian]
