By Edeniyere Abraham
Following the rainstorm that wreaked havoc on some communities in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State in March this year, the State Government through the Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EDOSEMA), has distributed building materials to affected residents to cushion the impact on them.
The intervention followed an on-the-spot assessment conducted by EDOSEMA in collaboration with the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) and based on the findings and recommendations as presented to the State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the approval for the distribution of relief materials to help victims rebuild their homes was granted.
Speaking during the exercise, the Executive Secretary of EDOSEMA, Hon. Jerry Idahosa, noted that the Governor’s approval reflects his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Edo residents, irrespective of political affiliation, religion, or tribe. He stated that the Team was present to ensure that the approved relief materials were distributed appropriately to reach the intended beneficiaries.
Hon. Idahosa seized the opportunity to sensitize residents on preventive measures to minimize the impact of future disasters such as rainstorms, flooding and fire outbreaks, encouraging the people to engage in tree planting, to switch off electrical appliances when leaving home, and to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse, stressing that such actions would go a long way in protecting lives and property.
In his remark, the Acting Chairman of Esan South-East Local Government Area, Hon. Moses Edoh, appreciated the EDOSEMA’s Team for its return visit, recalling the earlier assessment following the disaster. He commended the Agency for fulfilling its promises and acknowledged the Governor’s dedication to the welfare of the people.
Hon. Edoh praised the State Governor, Sen. Okpebholo for his transparent, practical, and technically driven leadership style, which he said distinguished him as a true servant-leader, who is committed to the people’s welfare. He emphasized the importance of practical governance that delivers real results, aligning with the Governor’s developmental agenda.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Godwin Idiaghe, appreciated the Edo State Governor, Sen. Okpebholo for the kind gesture of not only providing relief materials such as zinc, nails and wood, but also for offering financial assistance to convey the items home. He prayed for God’s blessings and protection upon the Governor, wishing him continued success in office and noting with joy that the support came just in time.
Items distributed to the beneficiaries included roofing sheets, wooden planks, bags of nails, ceiling boards, and other materials aimed at helping the victims rebuild and recover from the disaster.