Ekiti spent N680m on disaster victims in 2 years – Oyebanji

Governor  Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti state  Thursday said his administration disbursed N680 million in the last two years to supporting victims of fire and rainstorm disasters across the state.

Oyebanji said the intervention was part of his administration’s welfare and social intervention programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable residents who suffered sudden losses from disasters.

The governor stated this while distributing cheques worth N40 million and food items to another set of victims of fire and rainstorm disasters from some local government areas of the state.

Oyebanji, represented by the deputy governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, also urged residents to take precautionary measures against disasters, particularly by avoiding indiscriminate construction on waterways and ensuring the proper handling of electrical appliances.

He said the loss of property, businesses and means of livelihood to disasters could be devastating; adding that no amount of assistance could completely replace what victims had lost.

The governor assured the affected persons of the government’s continued support in times of distress.

Giving a breakdown of the interventions, Oyebanji said N205 million had been distributed to victims of fire disasters, while N436 million was disbursed to victims of rainstorms during the period.

He said the latest intervention of N40 million brings the total amount spent on supporting disaster victims in the state to about N680 million.

“Today’s intervention demonstrates the commitment of the Oyebanji administration to the welfare, safety and wellbeing of the people.

“The distribution of these cheques and relief materials is a demonstration of compassion, responsibility and our shared commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left alone in the face of disaster.

“I use this opportunity to encourage our people to remain vigilant, especially during the rainy season.

“We should take precautionary measures, avoid activities that may expose us to unnecessary risks and promptly report emerging hazards to the appropriate authorities,” he said.