The member representing Barkin Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Fom Dalyop Chollom, has called for immediate intervention by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) following a devastating rainstorm and windstorm that struck Tom Gangare community in Sopp Ward of Riyom Local Government Area, Plateau State.
Speaking during plenary on Wednesday, Chollom moved a motion drawing the attention of the House to the extensive destruction caused by the disaster, which reportedly affected more than 100 houses and rendered hundreds of residents homeless.
The lawmaker said the storm also uprooted economic trees and destroyed farmlands, dealing a severe blow to the livelihoods of residents whose primary source of income is agriculture.
According to him, the disaster has left many women, children, elderly persons and other vulnerable groups exposed to harsh weather conditions, inadequate shelter and heightened health risks, as displaced families continue to seek refuge under difficult circumstances.
Chollom further warned that the destruction of food supplies and household belongings could worsen food insecurity in the community, raising concerns about hunger and malnutrition at a critical period of the farming season.
To address the situation, the lawmaker urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development to urgently conduct a comprehensive assessment of the affected area and provide relief materials to victims.
He called for the immediate distribution of food items, building materials, temporary shelters and medical supplies to assist displaced families and support recovery efforts.
“The people of Tom Gangare are resilient, but they cannot rebuild alone. Their pain is our pain. I call on NEMA and all relevant agencies to act swiftly so that relief reaches these families before the next rainfall,” Chollom said.
He also appealed to non-governmental organisations, humanitarian agencies and public-spirited individuals to complement government efforts by providing assistance to the affected residents.
The motion highlights growing concerns over the impact of extreme weather events on rural communities and the need for timely emergency response mechanisms to mitigate humanitarian crises and protect vulnerable populations.