Following days of heavy rainfall and a massive overflow of the Orashi River, approximately 103 communities in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State have been left submerged, with severe flooding displacing residents and damaging farms and homes.

A visit to Akinima, the council headquarters, by Channels Television on Thursday revealed widespread devastation. Communities such as Mbiama, Akinima, Engenni, and Enedua are among those hardest hit, with floodwaters submerging nearly all structures and farmland, leaving residents stranded and struggling to salvage belongings.

Esedi Joe, Chief Press Secretary of Ahoada West LGA, described the situation as overwhelming. “The council is facing an unprecedented crisis,” Joe said, appealing to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and international relief organizations for immediate assistance to help the affected communities recover and rebuild.

Local authorities have urged for urgent action, citing the need for shelter, food, and medical supplies for those displaced by the floods.