Residents of Illushi Community in Edo cry for help as rising flood waters wreak havoc

Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - Residents of Illushi community in the Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State have appealed to the Federal and state governments for urgent intervention as floodwaters have submerged about three-quarters of the community.

The residents, who said the flooding had displaced several people and destroyed homes and farmlands, also called for their relocation to safer, higher ground to prevent further loss of property and livelihoods.

Illushi, which is bordered by the River Niger, has reportedly experienced perennial flooding, with residents attributing the latest development to the overflowing of the river following incessant rainfall.

A resident, David, told Punch that the situation had become increasingly alarming, saying this year’s flooding appeared to be the worst in recent times.

He said although weather forecasts had warned of heavy rainfall, the extent of the flooding had left residents in urgent need of government assistance.

“The flooding has caused severe damage to our farms and homes. This year’s occurrence seems to be the worst in recent times, but we call on the government to help relocate people to high ground and give palliatives to those affected.

“I can say that over three-quarters of the community has been taken over by flood. We need help,” he added.

The traditional ruler of the community, HRH Christopher Ikebodi, also appealed to the Federal and Edo State governments to provide a safe location where residents could relocate whenever the floodwaters rise.

Ikebodi said the community lacked the capacity to tackle the recurring flooding, adding that the situation had become a major threat to the residents.

“We cannot help ourselves. We rely on the government as we were told the flood will overtake everywhere.

“We are pleading for help. Illushi has almost been taken away. Three-quarters of the community have been washed away. We are begging the government for help.

“When the River Niger overflows its bank, we will be in trouble,” the traditional ruler said.