Farmers Seek Bailout from Governor Sanwo-Olu, Appeal to NEMA over Devastating Rainfall in Ikorodu
…Predict High Fish Scarcity
By Taiwo Olapade
Over 50 fish farmers affected by Monday’s torrential rainfall in the Ikorodu area of Lagos have appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for urgent assistance, including a financial bailout, to cushion the impact of their losses.
The farmers, under the aegis of the Lagos State Catfish and Allied Farmers Association (LASCAFAN), Ikorodu Zone, lamented that the heavy downpour—rather than being a blessing—destroyed farmlands and washed away fish stocks and inputs, resulting in losses estimated at over ₦50 million.
They also called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for support, especially in the provision of fish feed, noting that the worst-hit areas include Mowo Kekere, Mowo Nla, Elepe, Igbe, Maya Fish Cluster, and Ibeshe.
The President-elect of LASCAFAN, Mr. Olatoye Fajinmi, explained that the rains devastated most of the farms, destroying not only fish but also valuable inputs such as feed and fertilizers.
He warned of an imminent fish scarcity as many of the affected farmers have been left with nothing. He urged for immediate government intervention to prevent further economic hardship and potential mental health issues among affected members.
Fajinmi added that many of the farmers are still repaying loans obtained from financial institutions for business startup and expansion, further worsening their predicament.
He also revealed that some of the farmers are willing to relocate to less disaster-prone areas but would require support in the form of collapsible tarpaulin ponds to continue their operations away from flood zones.
The LASCAFAN President expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government, particularly the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, for the continuous support and provision of farm inputs throughout the year.
He concluded by urging the Ministry of the Environment to visit the affected communities, assess the situation, and consider constructing proper drainage channels to prevent future occurrences.
