Devastating Flood Disaster Halts Operations at Automated Farm in Anambra State, Leading to Extensive Losses
In a recent turn of events, a massive flood disaster has forced the closure of a state-of-the-art automated farm located in Agbobo Umuoga Ossomala Community, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State. The catastrophic flooding has resulted in the unfortunate demise of over 25,000 birds at the poultry section of the farm, along with substantial damage to the fish and potato crops, among others.
Owner and proprietor of the farm complex, Patrick Sule-Ugboma, took reporters on a tour of the facility and revealed the distressing extent of the losses. With a heavy heart, he shared that the flood disaster has compelled the company to halt operations, affecting approximately 400 staff members who have been directed to cease work temporarily.
It is worth noting that the Ogbaru communities, situated along the River Niger coastline, have been prone to flooding, and this recent disaster has once again underscored the vulnerability of these areas. Mr. Sule-Ugboma emphasized that the magnitude of the flood has dealt a severe blow to the farm, causing an exorbitant financial loss.
We have incurred an overwhelming loss, with more than 25,000 poultry birds and fish in our ponds valued in millions of naira perishing, as well as significant damage to other property, Mr. Sule-Ugboma lamented.
The repercussions of the flooding have extended beyond the farm itself. Mr. Sule-Ugboma also drew attention to the bridges along the Onitsha-Ndoni Road, particularly the Umunnakwo Bridge, which have been severely affected. He emphasized the dangers this collapse poses to residents and travelers who now resort to crossing the river using wooden boats, a situation that demands immediate attention.
Drawing attention to the plight of the affected communities, Mr. Sule-Ugboma called upon Governor Charles Soludo to intervene urgently. He also appealed to the Niger Delta Development Commission to consider the reconstruction of the Onitsha-Ndoni Road. Recognizing that agriculture is the backbone of not only Ogbaru communities but also neighboring states such as Delta, Imo, and Rivers, he emphasized the importance of addressing this grave issue promptly.
The devastating flood disaster has dealt a crippling blow to the automated farm, shattering the dreams and aspirations of the proprietors, along with their dedicated staff members. The Anambra State government, alongside federal agencies, must step up to prioritize the rehabilitation of the affected areas and offer support to the affected communities. By addressing the urgent need for infrastructure reconstruction and flood control measures, the government can help prevent such debilitating losses in the future and secure the livelihoods of those who rely on agriculture for sustenance.
While the path to recovery may be challenging, it is crucial that all stakeholders unite to provide the necessary assistance and resources to rebuild the automated farm and restore prosperity to Ogbaru and its neighboring communities. By doing so, they can pave the way for a future where agricultural enterprises can thrive, and disaster-induced setbacks can be mitigated.
