By Okechukwu Onuegbu
The Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Anambra State chapter, Monday, charged governments at all levels to declare a State of emergency on flooding with a view to finding lasting solution to it nationwide.
The Chapter President, Dr. Chinyere Ukamaka Onubogu made the call when the association paid visit to some victims of flooding at Ogbaru Local Government Area, providing them with bags of rice, milk, cereals, biscuits, beverages, soap, sanitary pads, noodles, insecticide treated nets, beddings, children, adult clothing and footwears.
Onubogu said that with state of emergency, the federal, state and local governments will make adequate plans to cushion the effects.
According to Onubogu, there's need for the government to construct more dams in strategic places, fix existing ones, dredge river Niger and construct more drainage channels.
"Communities should also desist from act that could contribute to blockage of drainage channels such as dumping of refuse in drainage channels and making constructions over such channels. They're should heed to warnings on impending flood to forestall heavy losses of lives and property," she added.
Welcoming the team, a community leader, Mrs. Ada Onuora, appreciated the group for the kind gesture and urged more support for flood victims.
A health education session was also featured during the visit as people were told how to remain healthy in the face of prevailing environmental challenges, how to prepare healthy diet using local food items, hygiene, hand washing, routine check-ups and others.