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Owolabi Habeeb,
a lifelong resident of Agwa Community bears witness to the relentless onslaught of nature’s fury. The once tranquil community, once a haven of peace and harmony, has been transformed into a scene of devastation, with homes reduced to rubble and streets inundated with floodwaters. The 2022 flood, in particular, stands out as a defining moment in the community’s history, a day that forever etched a scar in their collective memory. The floodwaters, laced with chemicals and carrying a foul stench, swept through Agwa Community with unprecedented force, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
“The water was disgusting,” Owolabi recounts, his voice heavy with emotion. “It was mixed with chemicals, causing irritations that damaged our clothes and skin.” The toxic waters, a stark reminder of the environmental degradation that has plagued the region, posed a serious health hazard to the community, further exacerbating their plight.
The floods not only destroyed their homes but also displaced a staggering 60% of the residents in Bayelsa State. Owolabi, like many others, was forced to seek refuge with friends and family, finding solace in cramped spaces amidst the chaos and uncertainty. The displacement not only disrupted their lives but also exposed them to a heightened risk of contracting diseases, particularly mosquito-borne illnesses. The lack of adequate sanitation and hygiene facilities further exacerbated the situation, leaving the community vulnerable to the spread of infections.
He appeals to the government for urgent assistance, seeking help to rebuild their homes, restore their livelihoods, and protect their health.
Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resources Centre) is a non-governmental organisation and non-partisan human rights and development league.