Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has directed relevant government agencies to immediately identify flood-prone communities and implement urgent intervention measures following recent flooding in parts of the state.
Represented by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi at a constituency briefing and empowerment programme in Abak Local Government Area, the governor said the Akwa Ibom State Emergency Management Agency (AKSEMA)and the Ministry of Environment have been mandated to assess affected communities and recommend lasting solutions.
According to the Deputy Governor, inspections have already been completed, with reports indicating that several locations require the desilting of drains and culverts. She added that illegal structures obstructing natural waterways may be demolished to facilitate effective flood control and improve drainage.
Eyakenyi attributed recurring flooding in some communities to indiscriminate waste disposal and the construction of buildings on drainage channels and flood plains. She urged residents to support government efforts by keeping drains, gutters, and culverts free of refuse.
She also disclosed that the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) is currently carrying out statewide desilting of drains and culverts to improve water flow during the rainy season.
Meanwhile, the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA) credited the limited impact of Thursday’s heavy rainfall in many parts of Uyo to the state government’s ongoing investments in drainage infrastructure, road construction, and flood mitigation projects.
Following an emergency inspection of affected areas, including the Emmanuel Methodist Cathedral axis along Oron Road, UCCDA Chairman Anietie Eka described the rainfall as one of the heaviest in recent times but noted that recently completed drainage projects significantly reduced the extent of flooding.
He also announced the commencement of a city-wide enforcement exercise to remove illegal structures, shanties, and other encroachments blocking drainage channels, waterways, and government rights-of-way as part of efforts to strengthen flood resilience across the state.
