Take Precautionary Measures Against Flood, Environmentalist Urges Nigerians

An expert on Environment, Mr Philemon Agbaoje, of Environmental Occupational Health and Safety Limited, has urged Nigerians to take warnings on early predictions from the Ministry of Environment seriously.

Agbaoje stated this in Abuja at an interview with newsmen saying that early prediction allows cities and residents to prepare their homes and businesses from destruction by flood.

He said that floods could be caused by heavy rainfall, frozen soil, high river levels, runoff, over-saturated soil and even urbanisation.

He said that the recent flood disaster in Jos could be attributed to heavy rainfall which resulted to the overflow of the dam causing the death of over 35 and rendered several people homeless.

Agbaoje remarked that though river flooding could damage properties, it could however be prevented.

Suggesting ways of checking floods, the environmentalist said that precautions included the provision of drainage in houses and the installation of septic tank taps with appropriate check valves.

“The construction of barriers such as flood walls, beams and the likes should be built to prevent flooding.”

Agbaoje said that Nigerians should cultivate the habit of watching television and public communication media to gather more information on what was happening around them. “If you are living in a flood prone area, you should elevate and reinforce your home to protect yourself and your property from flood hazards.