RSG Begins Flood Alert Campaign

Rivers State Government has commenced Flood Alert Campaign in the state to sensitize the public on their responsibilities.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties, Mrs. Ibaniba Briggs-Iti said the campaign which kicked off from Obio/Akpor LGA was earmarked to create awareness in the nine flash point local government areas prone to flood this year.
Explaining the cause of the imminent flood in accordance with Nigerian Metrological Prediction (NIMET) report as excessive rainfall this year and the gradual release of water from Ladgo Dam in Cameroun.
She recalled the socio-economic losses and fatality experienced in the 2012 flood disaster, praying that God would avert it this time for the safety of rivers people which according to her, is of great concern to the Government.
Mrs. Ibaniba Briggs-Iti advised the people of Obio/Akpor to be responsible to their role in the disposal of their waste, opening up water ways and clearing of drains for free out flow of water.
She disclosed some temporary and permanent measures taken to prevent the flood, highlight some special projects being implemented by the State which include construction of drains, clearing of canals and dredging of rivers among others.
Also speaking, the State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Oliver Wolugbon advocated the change of habits in the actions of the people, noting that most houses in Obio/Akpor were built on water ways obstructing the free flow of water in the area.
He stressed that Obio/Akpor as an urban area should be cautious of indiscriminate dumping of waste, advising the residents to imbibe the culture of personal hygiene, maintaining a clean environment and enjoined them to desist from building structures on water ways.
Mr. Wolugbon enjoined the people to take the sensitization to the grassroots ensuring the natives understand the gravity of the impending flood so they would be prepared.
Speaking to newsmen, Mr. Wolugbon disclosed that following the 2012 flood disaster, the Federal Government embarked on the construction of a Dam, stressing that on completion the Dam would contain excessive water in the Federation.
Earlier in his address, the Care Taker Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. Bright Amehule decried the state of blocked drains in his area, adding ‘’most of the drains in Obio/Akpor are blocked, we are aware that most parts of Obio/Akpor are prone to flood’’.