The Federal Government has dismissed reports circulating on electronic and social media alleging that Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam has commenced the release of water, causing flooding in parts of the Benue River Basin, particularly Taraba and Benue states.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, in Abuja.
The statement describes the reports as false, urging members of the public to disregard the unverified information and remain calm.
It states categorically that the Lagdo Dam Authority is not currently releasing water from its reservoir.
According to the statement, the dam is presently impounding water, contrary to reports suggesting that water has been released into the Benue River Basin.
According to the statement, Data showed that the current water level at the Lagdo Reservoir stands at 209.82 metres, compared with its maximum operating level of 216 metres, leaving an available capacity of 6.18 metres for additional impoundment.
It also provides updates on major inland dams, including Kainji Dam, which currently stands at 130.38 metres against its maximum operating level of 141.83 metres, while Jebba Dam stands at 100.03 metres.
The statement explains that both dams remain within their normal operating levels, despite experiencing lower-than-average inflows.
It further clarifies that the flooding currently being experienced in many parts of the country is largely flash flooding caused by intense and prolonged rainfall, poor drainage systems, indiscriminate waste disposal and unauthorised urban development.
According to the statement, the agency urges Nigerians to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary panic.
