The rising water level
around low lying Azikoro in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State is now causing fear among residents of possible invasion of their homes by reptiles.
Most of the settlements along Azikoro creek, which passes through the community, have been taken over by flood.
The development, it was learned, has forced snakes and other dangerous reptiles out of their habitats in search of dry area. The flood had moved close to the major road, with most of the structures along the route submerged.
Some residents blamed the surging flood on the recent downpour recorded in the state and the silting of the creek caused by dumping of refuse.
A resident, who simply identified himself as Collins, said: “We are really disturbed by the rising flood. As you can see, I do not want to take chances as we are surrounded by forests, which is home to snakes and other wild animals.
“Our homes have been submerged and I have since moved my family to my uncle’s place at Amarata until the water recedes.”
Another resident, Ebipade Tariebi, said: “We are living in fear of possible snake bites; the snakes are also looking for dry land and may enter homes without our knowledge.”
He urged relevant authorities to come to their aid by dredging the creek and fumigating the area against reptiles.