Ebonyi Govt Warns Opposition: Don't Play Politics With Flood Disaster.

The Ebonyi State Government has issued a strong warning to opposition politicians, urging them to stop politicising the recent flood disaster in Akaeze, Ivo Local Government Area, and to refrain from exploiting the suffering of victims for political gain.

In a statement released on Sunday, the State Commissioner for Information, Ikeuwa Omebe, expressed concern over remarks made by opposition figures regarding the flooding. He emphasised that natural disasters should not become tools for partisan attacks, especially as the 2027 general elections draw closer.

Omebe acknowledged that political actors have every constitutional right to seek public support ahead of the elections, but he stressed that such conversations must remain issue-based, responsible, and free from inflammatory rhetoric that could worsen the anxiety of affected residents.

He called on political parties, candidates, community leaders, and all stakeholders to exercise restraint when discussing the disaster, reminding them that the safety, dignity, and welfare of citizens should always come before political interests.

The commissioner reassured residents that the state government has been proactive in responding to the crisis. According to him, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been directed to coordinate emergency response measures and provide relief to affected communities.

He also noted that the flood had displaced many households and destroyed farmlands, crops, properties, and other sources of livelihood, causing hardship and disruption across the affected areas. In response, the government has intensified relief and rehabilitation efforts.

Omebe further revealed that the state is working closely with federal emergency management institutions, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to secure additional support and intervention for the victims.

He reiterated that the welfare and security of residents remain central to Governor Francis Nwifuru's 'People's Charter of Needs' administration, urging affected residents to remain calm and cooperate with emergency officials handling assessments and relief operations.

The commissioner advised residents not to return prematurely to flood-prone areas or occupy buildings that may have been structurally compromised until authorities declare them safe.

He also urged residents to take weather and flood alerts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and other relevant authorities seriously. Those living in flood-prone communities were advised to monitor official forecasts, comply with evacuation advisories, and avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, and waterways. Residents were also encouraged to promptly report emerging threats to emergency response agencies.