Scores displaced as flood ravages Otukpa community in Benue

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

The flood, which residents believe was worsened by drainage challenges associated with the ongoing dualization of the Makurdi–Enugu Expressway passing through the community, left many families homeless and caused widespread destruction.

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

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

Following 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 from the disaster.

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

Among those called upon to intervene are 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.