Flooding: HYPPADEC to relocate 10,000 families in Bassa, Kogi State

By Iyojo Ameh

The federal government through the Hydro-Electricity Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC)has promise to relocate 10,000 families in Mosun Community in Bassa Local Government Area of Kogi following the rampaging activities of the River Benue in the rainy season.

Alhaji Abubakar Yelwa, Managing Director (MD) of the Hydro-Electricity Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC), made this known during a tour of the affected communities in the community.

Yelwa said the relocation of the affected communities became imperative due to the negative impact of the 2022 flood, as villagers had to flee their homes for safety.

“We will begin construction of buildings that would accommodate the affected villagers in two weeks if we are shown the piece of land by the traditional ruler and the Bassa Local Government authorities.

“What we are afraid of is the flood in 2023, going by the prediction of NiMet, which says this year’s rain would be heavier than that of 2022, which may mean more flooding than what we experienced.

“Here we are at the site, and you can see for yourselves the levels of damaging activities of the River Benue in these communities within the Mosun Kingdom. We have to do something to save their lives and make their lives worthwhile.

“As soon as the authorities show us the piece of land to relocate them, we shall begin construction work immediately. We are ready to move our equipment to the river banks to start work on controlling the ravaging erosive activities,” the MD said.

Earlier, the traditional ruler of Mosun Kingdom, Alhaji Burka Ali, told the HYPPADEC boss and his entourage that the 2022 flood was very devastating.

“No fewer than 10,000 people were displaced by the 2022 flood. In fact, land covering over 300 meters was washed away by the flood.

“As for the piece of land for the resettlement of my unfortunate people, we have already selected a piece of land to show HYPPADEC.

“I am short of words. We appreciate the commission and the federal government for this show of love and concern to the people of my kingdom.

“We are ready to cooperate with HYPPADEC to see that the resettlement programme is a success for the good of our fellow brothers and sisters as well as our children, who are suffering due to the flood,” Ali said.