Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, yesterday, donated N55 million to flood victims in Bayelsa State.
Speaking at Government House, Yenagoa, during his sympathy visit, Atiku said the donation was his token to support the recovery process of those affected by the natural disaster.
Describing the catastrophe as disheartening, Abubakar lamented its effect on the lives and economy of the people of the state, calling on the Federal Government and public-spirited individuals and organisations to support Bayelsa in this trying moment.
The former Vice President canvassed the establishment of an independent flood disaster relief fund to provide succour to victims and a temporary fund for farmers to ameliorate their losses and provide them with capital for the next planting season.
He also urged the government to build critical infrastructure to contain excess water.
Abubakar said if elected President, he would commit to completing the Dasin-Hausa dam in Adamawa State to manage the release of excess waters from the Lagdo dam in Cameroun and take other necessary measures to ensure that Nigeria does not suffer this magnitude of damage due to flooding.
The PDP candidate offered scholarships up to the university level to children of the late footballer, Ernest Peremobowei, who drowned after saving five other victims in a boat mishap.
He also presented him with a posthumous award for his bravery.
Abubakar together with Governor Douye Diri, Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo and some National Assembly members from the state later visited the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp at the Oxbow Lake Pavilion in Yenagoa where he presented another N5 million cash to the victims.
Responding, Diri said Bayelsa people were encouraged by the former vice president’s display of love.