Flooding: Visit victims, affected communities – Group tells Akwa Ibom gov
CHRAN Urges Governor Umo Eno to Visit Flood-Affected Communities in Uyo
The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has urged Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno to personally visit communities impacted by last week’s flood in Uyo. The organization emphasized the importance of the governor’s physical presence in offering support to families who lost possessions and lives during the disaster.
Governor Eno previously expressed his condolences to the victims and instructed relevant agencies to begin desilting drainage channels and implementing measures to alleviate future flooding.
In a statement released on Monday in Uyo, CHRAN State Director Franklyn Isong remarked that a press release alone would not sufficiently address the challenges faced by the victims. He asserted that the governor’s direct engagement would have a more meaningful impact.
Isong also called for assistance from various entities, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Akwa Ibom State Emergency Management Agency (AKSEMA), the State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, humanitarian organizations, corporate partners, faith-based groups, and compassionate citizens to support relief efforts for those affected.
“CHRAN believes that a governor’s presence at the site of a disaster reassures victims that they have not been abandoned, demonstrating the government’s genuine concern for their suffering,” Isong stated.
He emphasized the need for crisis communication to extend beyond mere press releases, advocating for a display of empathy that can inspire confidence and alleviate public anxieties.
The Center also raised concerns about the lack of proactive measures taken by relevant agencies, despite early flood warnings issued by the Federal Government. They questioned the preparedness of these agencies to manage flooding issues in the state.
