The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation (FMWAR&S) has confirmed that the Cameroonian authorities have not released water from the Lagdo Dam, contrary to the rumours circulating in the media (not TNT).
Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, in a statement issued on Monday, July 7, said the Honourable Minister, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, on July 7, had direct communication with the Lagdo Dam Manager, Mr. Ahmad Bivoung, who confirmed that the dam is currently at a low level of 2.06 meters, and no water has been released.
The Ministry is currently maintaining constant communication with Cameroonian authorities and assures the public that any official release of water will be promptly communicated, the statement said.
Mr. Pheelangwah’s statement quotes the Minister as urging the public to disregard false reports and remain calm while continuing to observe flood safety and preparedness measures earlier issued.
Prof. Utsev also advised communities receiving early warning signals particularly in Lokoja (Kogi State), Wurobokki (Adamawa State), and Makurdi (Benue State) to maintain early warning signals and consult the NIHSA Flood Dashboard for reliable, up-to-date information.
According to the statement, the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to flood management and water infrastructure development along the Benue Trough includes the proactive reservoir operations of existing dams on the tributaries of River Benue to prevent panic releases, the completion of the study and design for Datsin Hausa dam in Adamawa State and engagement of a Transaction Adviser to facilitate its construction under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
It adds that the Kashimbila Dam in Taraba State is being utilised for flood control, while the upgrade of the Wannune Dam and the study and design of the Dura Dam in Benue State have reached an advanced stage.
