‘My house also affected’ — Diri commiserates with residents as flood hits Bayelsa communities

Douye Diri, governor of Bayelsa, has lamented over the flooding that has displaced several communities across the state. 

According to a statement by the Bayelsa ministry of information, the governor spoke on the development during an on-the-spot assessment on Thursday.

According to Diri, his house in his community was also affected.

He, however, called on the federal government to assist the state with resources to help alleviate the plight of victims.

The governor made stops at Tungbo, Sagbama and Adagbabiri communities in Sagbama LGA to commiserate with persons whose houses and farmlands have been destroyed by the flood.

He also visited Odi and Kaiama communities in the Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA

Describing the flooding situation as “dire”, Diri said there is a need for the federal government to construct a dam around the River Niger.

“I came out in order to comfort the people so that they will know that their government stands with them in their time of trouble,” he said.

“Water has no respect for anybody as my house is also flooded in my community. So, everybody should be strong and careful during this period, particularly women. Your children should not go into the water.

“It is a very tempting period, but I know God will see us through.

“I have approved N450 million to provide succour for the people, which is the first tranche. Having seen things for myself, we will approve more money so our people can have something to eat while they go through this experience.”

He presented cash gifts to the affected communities and promised that relief materials would be made available to them through the task force on flooding.