Following the recent heavy rainfall on Friday, which affected parts of Potiskum, the Yobe State Government has swiftly activated emergency response measures through the State Emergency Management Agency.
In a report on released Saturday, the Executive Secretary Yobe SEMA, Mohammed Goje indicated that SEMA’s field response team is working closely with partners such as Yobe State Emergency Management Ambulance Service, National Emergency Management Agency Nigeria, IOM Nigeria, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and Centre for Civilians in Conflict to assess the situation and provide immediate relief to affected households.
As indicated by the report, “the affected communities are – 21 locations across 5 political wards have been heavily impacted, with specific communities including Old Prison, Filin Mashe, Unguwar Makafi, Unguwar Jaje Bakin Kwari, Afghanistan, Tsangaya, Karofi, Bayan Garejin Dan Juma, Jigawa, Behind NTA, Makarahuta, Tandari…”
Other areas listed in the report include households and individuals affected. The report states, “Total households affected – validation ongoing, total individuals affected – validation ongoing.”
It was further revealed that “the majority of affected individuals are women and young children. Houses destroyed/damaged – validation ongoing.”
The shelter situation, as revealed by the report, noted that, “65% of affected individuals were hosted within host communities and relatives – 35% camped temporarily at Sabon Gari Primary School, Potiskum.
The update on displaced households reads,”-102 households (612 individuals) are currently camped at Sabon Gari Primary School, Potiskum, with breakdown as follows – Bayan Garejin Dan Juma: 56 households, – Afghanistan: 21 households, – Anguwan Wanzam Dan Fulani: 25 households.”
It showed that the immediate needs being addressed by SEMA’s rescue team include shelter/hygiene and Non-food items (NFIs) – Mats, mosquito nets, blankets, buckets, and kettles.
Other support provided includes “Food – 3 square meals for 24 to 48 hours, Medical Care – Primary health care and YEMABUS services in case of outbreaks or treatment.”
“The rescue team have provided assistance to reintegrate 102 households into host communities, ” it revealed.
The report concluded with the government’s appreciation of the public’s continued support and patience as they work to provide necessary assistance and uphold transparency in their response efforts.
