By Daily Review Online
Over 1000 youths from Ogidi in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Monday blocked the Onitsha–Awka old road to protest against the worsening flood disaster ravaging their community.
The demonstration, led by Chris Obi-Okafor, President of Ogidi Youths, highlighted the severe damage caused by floodwaters that have submerged homes, destroyed farmlands, and wiped out properties worth millions of naira.
Carrying placards with urgent appeals, the protesters called on both the Federal Government and the Anambra State Government to intervene, specifically appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Chris Obi-Okafor addressed the crowd, saying: “I’m carrying not just my own tears, but the tears of an entire people drowning slowly in silence. Ogidi is crying. Ogidi is bleeding. Ogidi is sinking.”
“Every rainfall in our community has become a nightmare. What used to be a blessing from God has now become a season of fear, sorrow, and destruction.”
“The flood disaster in Ogidi has gone beyond ordinary suffering. It has become a humanitarian crisis. Our children are suffering the most painful fate, often unable to go to school when rain falls. Imagine the dreams dying silently because a child cannot cross floodwaters to access education.”
“Our fathers can no longer tend their farms in peace as cash crops and economic trees worth millions have been washed away. Governor, please do not ignore our cries. We have no other place to run to. Do not allow Ogidi to perish in silence.”
The protesters warned that the floods have made life increasingly difficult, rendering roads impassable, destroying homes and businesses, and limiting access to education for children.
Meanwhile, Igwe Pharm. Alex Onyido, the traditional ruler of Ogidi, called for calm and urged the youths to avoid violence. He assured them that he would engage Governor Soludo to address the community’s urgent concerns.
The protest underscores the urgent need for comprehensive flood management strategies in the area, as residents continue to face seasonal displacement and economic losses.