“Can’t forget 2018 experience where I lost 40 hectares of farmland to this flood in Taraba state. Nigeria should be getting ready for another inflation in food sector”, the notification of the release of Ladgo Dam on Benue River message alert, on FarmingFarmersFarms Community page had exerted this reaction from Mr. Stephen Ariwoola, the Chief Executive Officer of SMV Farms. As much as the release of water could be a blessing for farming and agriculture; it could also spell evil when its course cannot be sustainably controlled.
Such was the case in 2018, when severe flooding has affected at least 12 states – Adamawa, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Delta, Edo, Kebbi, Kogi, Niger, Kwara, Rivers and Taraba; leaving rural areas as most vulnerable. Just recently, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) received a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the Republic of Cameroon has resolved to open the floodgates of the Ladgo Dam on the Benue River in the days ahead, due to the heavy rainfall around the dam catchment area in Northern Cameroon. According to the message, it is pertinent to note that when the release of water becomes necessary, the authorities of the Lagdo Dam would be releasing only modulated variable small amount of water at a time to mitigate and avoid damages that the released water may cause along the River Benue basin in both Cameroon and in Nigeria, the statement continued.
The receipt and circulation of this document raised disaster fears in the hearts of many communities around the Benue River. The Lagdo Dam is located on the Benue River in Cameroon. It is a large hydroelectric dam that serves various purposes including flood control, irrigation, and power generation. The dam’s reservoir provides water storage and helps regulate the flow of the Benue River, which is one of the major tributaries of the Niger River. However, the release of water from the Lagdo Dam on the Benue River can have significant consequences that ripple through various aspects of the region. Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Anambra, Edo, Delta and Bayelsa states are the nine states identified to be likely affected this year.
The Lagdo Dam’s water flow has been blamed for significant flooding in numerous places around the nation over the years. In accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding that the two countries signed in 2016, Nigeria and Cameroon would always notify each other before opening the dam’s gates. However, in 2019, the dam was unexpectedly opened, causing flooding in the Niger Delta, Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, and Kogi regions around October and November that year. A similar experience happened in 2022 when Niger State experienced the most devastating effect. According to a report published on the Nigerian Tribune; about 1,302,589 people were displaced and 2,407 people injured, 603 people were killed, 108,392 farmlands were partially damaged and 332,327 farmlands were totally damaged.
Ever since, the promises of construction of dams to control that release of water from Ladgo farms have fallen flat. Here are some comprehensive consequences that these communities may have experienced as a result of the release of the Ladgo water:
1. Flooding: Sudden and uncontrolled releases from the dam would have lead to downstream flooding. This can result in the inundation of homes, farmlands, and infrastructure. For example, if heavy rainfall upstream prompts the dam operators to release excess water quickly, communities along the riverbanks could experience devastating floods, displacing residents and damaging property.
2. Agricultural impact: Floodwaters can submerge crops and fields, leading to crop loss and reduced agricultural productivity. Farmers, who depend on these lands for their livelihoods, could lose their income for the season. For instance, if the dam releases coincide with the planting or harvesting seasons, crops like rice, maize, and vegetables could be destroyed, affecting food security and local economies.
3. Livestock and infrastructure: Floods can also impact livestock, making it difficult to provide animals with proper care and shelter. Roads, bridges, and other infrastructure could be damaged or washed away, hindering transportation and connectivity. For instance, critical transport routes might become impassable, isolating communities from essential services and support.
4. Environmental impact: Sudden releases can disrupt aquatic ecosystems downstream. Fish populations could be affected, impacting both local fisheries and the food chain. For example, a rapid influx of water might wash away fish breeding habitats and cause fish mortality due to sudden changes in water conditions.
5. Economic loss: The destruction of farmlands, homes, businesses, and infrastructure can result in significant economic losses. Rebuilding after a flood event can strain local economies and resources. Small businesses, such as shops and local markets, might suffer due to decreased foot traffic and reduced consumer spending in the aftermath of flooding.
6. Human displacement: Floods can force people to evacuate their homes, abandon their farms; leading to temporary or long-term displacement. Evacuees might seek shelter in overcrowded relief centres, facing challenges related to sanitation, health, and overall well-being. This displacement can strain social systems and create psychological stress among affected individuals and families.
7. Hydropower generation: While the dam serves purposes like flood control and water supply, changes in water flow can also impact hydropower generation. Inconsistent water releases could affect the dam’s ability to provide a steady supply of electricity to the region, thus hampering economic activities.
The release of water from the Lagdo Dam on the Benue River would, no doubt, have had far-reaching consequences by affecting communities, agriculture, the environment, and the economy. Therefore, individuals must take proactive steps and heed warnings to evacuate to higher lands and make contingency plans for their farms and businesses; as the government also plays its part to mitigate effects.
It is evident from unfulfilled promises of past administrations that there is need for the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government to exert political will to would ensure the implementation and installation of quality drainage systems, flood barriers, and early warning systems. Without strong political will, effective flood mitigation measures may not be prioritised or properly executed, potentially leaving communities vulnerable to the devastating impacts of floods.
