The Ebonyi Government has cautioned opposition groups against politicising natural disasters. The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Chief Ikeuwa Omebe, issued the warning on Sunday. He was reacting to remarks by opposition politicians on the recent flood at Akaeze. Akaeze is in Ivo Local Government Area.
Nigeria has a long history of flood disasters. In 2012, floods killed over 300 people and displaced 2 million. In 2022, floods killed over 600 and displaced 1.4 million. In each cycle, politicians trade blame. The pattern is predictable. Disasters become political weapons. Victims become pawns. The Ebonyi warning reflects that reality.
Omebe said the government has taken proactive measures. SEMA is coordinating emergency response. He said political actors have constitutional rights to canvass for support. But he urged issue-based discourse. He called for restraint. He said the safety and dignity of citizens should come first.
The government acknowledged displacement and destruction. Farmlands, crops and properties were lost. The state is engaging NEMA for complementary support. Omebe urged residents to cooperate with emergency officials. He warned against returning prematurely to flood-prone areas. He advised residents to heed NiMet alerts. The opposition has not responded. The 2027 election is approaching. Floods will remain a political issue.
Winners: The Ebonyi Government, which shows concern. SEMA, which coordinates response. Flood victims, if relief reaches them. Losers: Opposition politicians, whose criticism is dismissed. Flood victims, if politicisation delays relief. Residents who ignore evacuation advisories.
Bottom Line: Floods are natural. Politicisation is deliberate. Ebonyi wants issue-based discourse. The opposition wants political advantage. Victims want relief. The government must deliver.