Panic as Flood Wreaks Serious Havoc in Ebonyi State (Photo)

 

 

Food crops and properties worth millions of Naira were destroyed by a flood at the weekend, in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital.

 

The flood, which submerged houses, vehicles, roads and farmlands, was caused by a downpour which lasted till the early hours of yesterday. 

 

Vanguard reports that many residents, especially those living close to water channels within the metropolis, were sacked from their homes, following the down pour, while some homes had their roofs blown off by wind that accompanied the rain. 

 

The locations affected were Ogbaga Road, Udensi Street, St. Patrick Road, Hill Top, Mile 50, Nkaliki, Ogbe Hausa, Ogoja Road among others. Some new generation churches, located at the bank of the river close to Water Works Road, were also affected. 

 

Also, owners of shops and residential houses at Ogboaga Road, Iyiokwu Avenue, Onwe Road and Hilltop Avenue also lost properties to the flood. 

 

When most of the affected areas were visisted, many were seen in group discussing the havoc and losses resulting from the flood.

 

The Iyi-Udele River that runs through the middle of the town, was flooded as buildings located 30 metres away from the river bank, were flooded, leading to some walls and buildings almost caving in. 

 

Speaking to Vanguard, one of the victims, Mr. John Oke, said that he has lost everything in his house, including his vital documents, to the flood. 

 

He said: “We woke up to see everywhere submerged in water. In fact, I had to smuggle my children out of our compound. We were lying on top of water as our mattresses were soaked with water."