Ondo Starts Relief, Cash Support for 7,000 Disaster Victims

The Ondo State Government has begun distributing relief materials and cash assistance to victims of natural and fire disasters across the state, in an intervention the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, says will reach about 7,000 people.

 

Adelami announced the programme on Friday in Akure at the flag-off of the distribution, describing it as support for residents whose homes, businesses and livelihoods had been hit by disasters.

 

Adelami, who also chairs the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency (ODSEMA), said the exercise marked the start of a broader relief programme for affected residents across the state.

 

"Our records indicate that about 7,000 victims will benefit from the broader relief intervention being undertaken across the state," he said.

 

According to the deputy governor, the intervention will cover victims in several local government areas, including those affected by the Ore market fire outbreak, as well as Ese-Odo, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo, Owo, Akure South, Akoko South-West, Odigbo, Ilaje and Okitipupa.

 

"The scale of this intervention reflects the determination of this administration to ensure that no affected community is forgotten," Adelami said.

 

 

Adelami thanked Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa for prioritising residents' welfare and for strengthening ODSEMA's operations so that it could respond effectively to emergencies.

 

He said the intervention showed the government's commitment to supporting citizens in difficult times.

 

"This is consistent with the people-centred philosophy of this administration, which places the welfare, security and prosperity of our people at the centre of governance," he said.

 

The deputy governor also commended the ODSEMA team for identifying affected communities, assessing the extent of the damage and coordinating the relief response, noting that effective disaster management depends on timely assessment, proper documentation and efficient coordination.

 

 

The Administrative Secretary of ODSEMA, Mr 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.

 

The Onirese of Irese, Oba Ahmed Saka, thanked the state government for the assistance given to residents of his community affected by a rainstorm disaster.