Flood Displaces Scores of Residents in Otukpa, Benue

Scores of residents have been displaced and several properties destroyed after a devastating flood swept through the Odoba Ogaje community in Otukpa, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, following heavy rainfall on the night of June 21, 2026.

Residents say the flood was worsened by drainage problems linked to the ongoing dualization of the Makurdi–Enugu Expressway that passes through the community, leaving many families homeless and causing widespread destruction.

Homes, churches, schools, local roads, farmlands and other critical infrastructure were severely affected, plunging many residents into hardship.

Community members reported that the disaster forced several families to flee their homes as floodwaters inundated residential areas and destroyed valuable property.

After the incident, the people of Odoba Ogaje appealed to the Federal Government, Benue State Government and relevant emergency agencies for urgent intervention.

They called for the provision of emergency relief materials, temporary shelter, medical assistance and rehabilitation support to help victims recover.

The community also urged key government officials and agencies to visit the affected area and assess the damage with a view to providing immediate assistance.

Those called upon to intervene include the Chairman of Ogbadibo Local Government Council, the member representing Ogbadibo State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, the member representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, the Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, the Governor of Benue State, the Minister of Environment, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

The residents appealed for swift action to prevent further suffering and restore normalcy to the community.