ONDO BEGINS DISTRIBUTION OF RELIEF MATERIALS, CASH SUPPORT TO 7,000 DISASTER VICTIMS
The Ondo state government has commenced the distribution of relief materials and cash assistance to victims of natural and fire disasters across the state.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Akure on Thursday, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, said the intervention was aimed at supporting residents whose homes, businesses and livelihoods had been affected by disasters, including rainstorms and fire outbreaks.
Adelami, who is also the Chairman of the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency (ODSEMA), explained that the exercise marked the beginning of a broader relief programme to reach thousands of affected residents across the state. He disclosed that about 7,000 disaster victims were expected to benefit from the intervention.
“Our records indicate that about 7,000 victims will benefit from the broader relief intervention being undertaken across the state.
“The intervention will cover affected persons in several local government areas, including the Ore market fire outbreak victims, Ese-Odo, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo, Owo, Akure South, Akoko South-West, Odigbo, Ilaje and Okitipupa, among others.
“The scale of this intervention reflects the determination of the Lucky Aiyedatiwa administration to ensure that no affected community is forgotten,” he said.
Dr. Adelami appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for prioritising the welfare of residents and strengthening the operations of ODSEMA to enable it respond effectively to emergencies.
According to him, “This intervention is a demonstration that the government cares and will stand with its citizens in their moments of difficulty. It is also consistent with the people-centred philosophy of the Our Ease Agenda of this administration, which places the welfare, security and prosperity of our people at the centre of governance,” he added.
The deputy governor commended the ODSEMA team for identifying affected communities, assessing the extent of damage and coordinating the relief response, noting that effective disaster management required timely assessment, proper documentation and efficient coordination.
Also speaking, the Administrative Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Pastor Frederick Orunko, described disaster management as a collective responsibility that requires the cooperation of individuals, communities and relevant stakeholders.
“I urge you to comply with safety guidelines and cooperate with emergency management officials. Effective disaster response requires the participation and support of everyone,” Orunko said.
In his remarks, the Onirese of Irese, Oba Ahmed Saka, expressed appreciation to the state government for providing assistance to residents affected by rainstorm disaster in his community.
Similarly, the vice chairman of Akure South Local Government, Hon. Funmi Dapo-Filani, commended the state government and ODSEMA for extending relief to disaster victims across the state, particularly communities under the local government.
