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Kogi State is facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis as devastating floods have ravaged the region, submerging over 200 communities and displacing approximately two million people. The state’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, revealed the alarming figures on Monday during a visit to Kotonkarfe in Kogi Local Government Area.

“The situation is dire, and we are in an emergency mode,” Fanwo stressed, emphasizing that nine out of the state’s 21 local government areas are affected, accounting for nearly 50% of the total. The affected areas include Kogi, Lokoja, Adavi, Ofu, Ajaokuta, Idah, Ibaji, Igalamela, and Omalla.

Fanwo painted a grim picture of the situation, stating that schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure have been completely destroyed. The most vulnerable populations, including the aged, women, and children, are bearing the brunt of the disaster.

Despite the chaos, Fanwo noted that timely warnings and enlightenment efforts have prevented loss of life thus far. However, the state government is struggling to cope with the sheer scale of the disaster.

“We have opened 68 IDP camps, but they are overwhelmed. We urgently need assistance from the Federal Government, international donor agencies, and non-governmental organizations,” Fanwo appealed.

To coordinate relief efforts, the state government has established a flood disaster response team under the leadership of the deputy governor.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, Kogi State’s plight serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters on communities.