Relief Materials Distribution Offers Lifeline to Disaster Victims — Ondo Deputy Governor
The Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Olayide Adelami, has described the distribution of relief materials to victims of natural disasters as a vital lifeline aimed at easing their hardship and restoring hope.
The Deputy Governor, represented by his Administrative Secretary, Mr Fredrick Orunko, made this known during the distribution of relief materials to affected communities in Akure South and Akure North Local Government Areas.
He explained that the intervention reflects the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens, particularly in times of distress, noting that providing timely support to victims remains both a moral responsibility and a core duty of a responsive administration.
According to him, the initiative underscores the state government’s proactive approach to disaster management and its determination to ensure that no resident is left behind during emergencies. He also commended the efforts of relevant agencies, especially emergency management bodies, for their prompt response and effective coordination.
The Deputy Governor noted that the intervention followed a series of natural disasters, including flooding, rainstorms, and fire incidents, which affected several communities across the state in recent months. He added that the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency carried out on-the-spot assessments to determine the extent of damage and identify those affected.
He further disclosed that the agency collaborated with the National Emergency Management Agency, resulting in the provision of relief materials such as rice, beans, vegetable oil, condiments, and other essential supplies to support victims.
In preparation for future emergencies, the government has also taken proactive steps by stockpiling both food and non-food items, including roofing materials, nails, cement, and mattresses, to ensure a swift response whenever the need arises.
Adelami revealed that community engagement and sensitisation campaigns are being intensified, particularly in flood-prone areas such as Eyinala, Adesupa, Elegmin, Aule, Odokoyi, and Ala in Akure South Local Government Area.
These efforts are being carried out in collaboration with relevant ministries, including Environment, Physical and Urban Planning, Works, and Health.
He urged residents to desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse in gutters and waterways, warning that such practices contribute significantly to flooding. Property developers were also advised to strictly adhere to building regulations, particularly in maintaining proper setbacks for waterways.
In his remarks, the Chief Search and Rescue Officer at the Akure Operations Office of the National Emergency Management Agency, Mr Abogunrin Adesina, stated that the relief intervention was based on assessments conducted following incidents recorded between December and January, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
He stressed that disaster management is a collective responsibility, calling on residents to adopt proper waste disposal practices and avoid actions that could trigger environmental hazards, especially as the rainy season approaches.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Remi Daramola, expressed appreciation to the government for the support, describing it as timely and impactful. She noted that the assistance would help ease her household expenses, particularly during the Easter period, and allow her to redirect limited resources to other pressing needs.
Daramola, who was affected by flooding in the Aule area of Akure, added that the gesture would go a long way in helping victims recover from their losses.
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