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Flood Menace: Akwa Ibom Government Takes Action, Promises Long-Term Solution

By Harris Emanuel, Managing Editor.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has taken swift action to address the recent cases of flooding in some parts of the state capital.

In response to a directive from State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Deputy Governor Dr. Akon Eyakenyi led a team of officials and experts on a visit to the affected areas to find a lasting solution to the flooding menace.

During the visit, the Deputy Governor expressed the Governor’s concern for the safety of the people and emphasized the need for immediate action to address the flooding in the State.

She also highlighted the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook Report released by the federal government, which identified Akwa Ibom as one of the states likely to experience heavy rainfall and flooding this year. She urged the people to adopt environmentally friendly practices and remain vigilant.

The State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency has begun a massive desilting operation of gutters to ensure the free flow of water.

The Deputy Governor emphasized the importance of individual responsibility in maintaining clean gutters and avoiding the disposal of debris into them.

Areas requiring urgent attention were identified during the visit, including Ewet Housing Extension, Osongama Estate, Immanuel Methodist Cathedral, Itiam, and Nsikak Eduok drainage site.

The government plans to bring down buildings erected on waterways in Ewet Housing Extension and Osongama Estates to create channels for water flow.

Occupants of affected buildings will be given a 21-day ultimatum to vacate, while others will be required to leave immediately due to the imminent danger to their lives.

The Commissioner for Works and Fire Service pledged the Ministry’s readiness to take necessary steps to prevent disasters.

Accompanying the Deputy Governor during the visit were officials from various agencies, including the Managing Director of Bulletine Construction Company Limited, the Chairman of the State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, the Surveyor General of Akwa Ibom State, and representatives from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The government is committed to addressing the flooding challenges in the state and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.

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