By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
A devastating flood has claimed the lives of eight people and destroyed farmlands in Enohia Itim, Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, leaving over 800 residents counting their losses.
The incident, which occurred on Friday, August 1, 2025, followed a torrential downpour that caused the plantain plantation and surrounding farmlands to be submerged. The flood swept away crops and properties, leaving many residents displaced.
Confirming the tragedy, the Councillor representing Itim Ward in the Afikpo Legislative Council, Hon. Francis Abani Okpani, disclosed that three bodies have so far been recovered, while five others remain missing. He added that three children were among the deceased.
Executive Chairman of Afikpo LGA, Hon. Timothy A. U. Nwachi, described the incident as “deeply saddening” and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. He assured that the local government would work closely with relevant state and federal agencies to provide relief materials and humanitarian support to those affected.
Nwachi recalled that the Federal Ministry of Environment had earlier listed Afikpo as one of the flood-prone areas in the country. He urged residents to integrate climate change projections into their flood risk management strategies, maintain effective drainage systems, and keep waterways free of debris to prevent blockages.