“We Lost Everything”: Anambra Flood Survivors Slam Government Over Years of Neglect

“We Lost Everything”: Anambra Flood Survivors Slam Government Over Years of Neglect

Flood survivors in Anambra State have once again relived the agony of losing homes, farmlands and livelihoods, accusing authorities of failing to provide long-term solutions despite repeated disasters.

On Friday, the Nigerian Red Cross Society conducted a community flood preparedness simulation in Inoma, Anambra West Local Government Area, as part of the Italian Government-funded Flood Resilience Project. The initiative is one of 12 simulations across Nigeria designed to strengthen community preparedness and response in flood-prone regions.

Residents of Inoma, battered by the devastating floods of 2012, 2022 and 2024, described the recurring tragedy as unbearable.

Youth leader Francis Odotule recalled how his farm was completely wiped out.

“Flood has damaged our farmlands, livestock and livelihoods. What Red Cross is doing today is a big relief. We appeal to government and agencies to sustain this support because our survival depends on it,” he said.

Another survivor, Ndidiamaka Iroegbu, a mother of four, narrated her ordeal of displacement.

“We relocated to makeshift camps for the displaced. Sometimes, there would be food shortages, poor sanitation and risk of disease outbreaks. But we appreciate Red Cross for this intervention; the training will help us better prepare for future emergencies,” she said.

Similarly, Maureen Omataala lamented how floods have “submerged houses, destroyed crops and swept away property worth millions,” but expressed hope that the simulation had equipped residents with crucial safety and first-aid skills.

Speaking at the event, Anambra Red Cross Branch Secretary, Kingsley Okoye, stressed the importance of community training.

“This simulation is both a success and a learning opportunity. It demonstrates the critical role of first responders in reducing disaster impact. With teamwork and collaboration, lives can be saved and losses reduced,” he said.

Idarabo Ekanem, Senior Disaster Management Officer and Project Manager of the Flood Recovery and Resilience Project, explained that the programme is active in 12 states, including Anambra.

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“Our goal is to improve resilience by sensitising communities to what to do before, during and after floods. We are also renovating public facilities, strengthening water plants and providing financial and technical support to reduce vulnerability,” she said.

The simulation recreated a full flood emergency scenario, including early warning broadcasts, evacuation drills, search-and-rescue operations with boats, underwater recovery, first aid and ambulance transportation.

Despite these interventions, survivors insist that without lasting government action, history may keep repeating itself.