By Elohor Foghola
SAPELE/Nigeria: In a continued effort to address the flood risks in Delta State, the Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Area Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief John Nani, has reiterated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a flood-free Delta. Speaking during an inspection tour in Sapele, Sapele Local Government Area, Chief Nani emphasized the Governor’s determination to mitigate the impact of flooding through the ongoing desilting and clearing of canals across the state.
Chief Nani noted that the DESOPADEC team has been working diligently to open blocked drainages and canals in various locations, including Kiagbodo/Bikorogha canal, Bekederemo River in Kiagbodo, Ika, Isoko, Bomadi, Agbaroh, Echerode Canal in Ughelli, Udu Jakpa Road in Effurun, and Okere Link Road in Warri. He stated that while significant progress has been made, challenges remain, particularly the issue of residents indiscriminately dumping refuse into cleared canals, which could exacerbate flooding.
Addressing the residents, he appealed for cooperation, urging them to dispose of waste through appropriate channels to help the government maintain a flood-free environment. He highlighted the proactive measures taken by Governor Oborevwori, including the establishment of a Flood Disaster Management Committee led by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, to ensure that those displaced by potential flooding are adequately supported.
The Chairman also warned that individuals who have constructed illegal structures on canal drainage channels and waterways should remove them immediately, as the government has begun demolishing such structures to prevent further obstruction of waterways.
During the team’s visit to the Ugbeku Canal at Amukpe in Sapele Local Government Area, the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ejiro Jamani, commended the Governor for the extensive flood prevention efforts across the state. He called on residents to take ownership of their environment by avoiding illegal waste disposal and construction activities that could hinder drainage and exacerbate flooding. Jamani urged the public to report any infractions to ensure that the environment remains safe and habitable for all.
The inspection tour underscores the Delta State government’s commitment to proactive flood management and community engagement, as efforts continue to safeguard the state against the predicted heavy rains.
