WARRI/Nigeria: In a bid to combat the perennial issue of flooding in Warri, Uvwie, Udu, Sapele, Ughelli, and other parts of the state, the Delta State Government is set to initiate the demolition of buildings and other illegal structures obstructing natural water channels. The move is part of the state’s comprehensive flood control measures.
The recently appointed Delta State Director-General of Special Duties, Chief Frank Omare, announced this decision during his inspection of the structures hindering the ongoing Storm Water Project executed by the state government in the Warri and Uvwie areas.
Chief Omare sternly advised owners of buildings obstructing water channels to relocate promptly, cautioning that no formal notice will be given before bulldozers take action to bring down the illegal structures. He asserted his commitment to fulfilling his duty without succumbing to any form of blackmail.
In his statement, Chief Omare outlined a procedure for owners with valid building approvals to ensure compensation and facilitate the orderly demolition of their structures, allowing for unimpeded water flow. He stressed the severe impact of flooding in Warri and its surroundings, highlighting the necessity of addressing the problem urgently.
Chief Omare emphasized that achieving Governor Oborevwori’s vision for a New Warri is contingent upon dealing with unapproved structures obstructing water channels, which are the primary cause of flooding in the locality. He called for maximum cooperation from the owners of these structures, urging them not to politicize the issue.
The upcoming demolition echoes a major step previously taken by the Delta State Government during the administration of former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, with Chief Frank Omare serving as the Commissioner for Environment at that time. Now, in Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s tenure, Chief Omare is once again entrusted with the responsibility of clearing blocked water channels to mitigate flooding during rainstorms.
Chief Omare and his team conducted inspections at several locations, identifying specific structures earmarked for demolition. Among the structures slated for removal were a private-storey building and a church on Nemejor Street and Auntie Rose Street in Ugboroke Layout. Additionally, buildings under construction on a water channel around a new Estate on the NNPC Housing Complex road were marked for demolition.
The Ekpan Roundabout was not exempt from the scrutiny, with a recently constructed storey building situated on a critical water channel slated for demolition. Furthermore, those who converted part of the water channel into a wood market in the area were warned to vacate or risk losing their materials.
Chief Omare asserted his determination to uphold the law, vowing to be firm in the discharge of his duty and emphasizing that no one will be exempt from the necessary actions. As the bulldozers and heavy equipment are set to roll out in the coming days, the state government hopes to address the flood menace and create a safer environment for the residents of Delta State.
