Calabar – The Cross River Government has raised the alarm that water from Lagdo Dam in Cameroon can cause flooding in some communities in the state.
Expressing the government's worry in an interview with journalists in Calabar, the Commissioner for Information, Mr Akin Ricketts, said the information available at the Cameroonian Consulate in Calabar indicates that the dam is almost overflowing it banks due to excess rainfall.
“As a safety measure and to avert imminent danger to its citizens, the Government of the Republic of Cameroon has signaled its intention to release the excess water from the dam, which is on the River Benue's axis'’
“The essence of this information is to alert Nigerians, particularly the communities that reside in and around the River Benue, which is contiguous to Cameroon to take proactive measures to forestall the envisaged disaster.
“Accordingly, chairmen of local government areas in whose domains such communities are situated, particularly Obanliku, Boki, Etung, Akamkpa, Bakassi and Akpabuyo should note this information and act fast.
“Also expected to take action on this are officials of the State Emergency Management Agency, opinion leaders and other people of goodwill.
“They are requested to educate people in the aforementioned communities and advise evacuation, where necessary. It is important for all concerned to work together and prevent any avoidable danger or disaster,'' he said.
“Finally, on behalf of the government, I urge members of the public, particularly those residing around the threatened zones to report any threat to relevant government agencies for prompt response.'' (NAN)
