Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has inspected major flood-affected communities and critical drainage channels across Uyo, expressing sympathy to residents affected by the recent flooding, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to implementing lasting flood control measures.
During the inspection, the Governor visited drainage systems and flood-prone locations where he had earlier directed contractors to commence immediate desilting and channel clearance to restore the free flow of storm water.
Addressing journalists, Governor Eno described the flooding as largely a natural occurrence, but noted that human activities had worsen the situation.
“This is not entirely a man-made disaster, but we have complicated the situation ourselves by blocking natural waterways and drainage channels,” he said, urging residents to desist from indiscriminate waste disposal and encroachment on water channels.” He said.
The Governor first inspected the underground drainage system along Ikot Ekpene Road at the Itam Junction axis, where he received briefings from government officials and contractors handling emergency flood intervention exercise.
He also inspected the Nkemba drainage channel, which is expected to evacuate storm water from Port Harcourt Street, Uwa Street and adjoining neighbourhoods. The inspection continued to the Akpan Essien–Akpan Udosen axis, where desilting operations are ongoing to improve water flow.
Speaking during the inspection, Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi appreciated the Governor for responding swiftly to the plight of flood victims and for appointing him to chair the emergency response committee.
She explained that following the devastating rainfall of July 9, the committee immediately commenced intervention efforts from July 10, adding that emergency measures had already been implemented while permanent solutions involving reconstruction, demolition and drainage expansion now await final consideration.
The Deputy Governor also disclosed that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) are identifying displaced families to provide temporary shelter and other humanitarian assistance.
In an interview, Chairman of the Environmental Task Force, Prince Ikim said Governor Eno had assigned contractors to desilt critical drainage channels across the state following weather forecasts predicting heavy rainfall in Akwa Ibom.
He noted that response teams have also been deployed to Ibeno, Abak and other flood-prone local government areas to identify the root causes of flooding and recommend lasting solutions.
