Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has called on residents to cooperate with the government in taking proactive measures to mitigate the effects of flooding, following a flood alert issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo made the call during a meeting with relevant stakeholders at his office in Government House, Yenagoa.
The Deputy Governor assured that the state government is taking steps to address the menace of flooding and minimize its impact.
However, he urged the ministries of environment and information, the Flood Control Directorate, and other relevant agencies to intensify their efforts, including sensitization campaigns on proper refuse disposal and clearing of blocked drainages.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo directed the Flood Control Directorate to extend their operations to areas heavily impacted by flooding every year, such as Biseni and Tombia in Yenagoa Local Government Area and Obirigbene in Ekeremor LGA.
He also instructed relevant MDAs to work together to identify higher grounds in flood-prone communities and sand-fill them to make them habitable in the event of devastating flooding.
The Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ben Ololo, said his ministry and the Flood Control Directorate have made collaborative efforts to clear drainages and canals.
He noted that more funding and machinery would be required to open up more drainages and reduce the impact of flooding and erosion.
The Director General of the Bayelsa State Flood and Erosion Control Directorate, Chief Omuso Wilson Omuso, and the Mayor of Yenagoa City, Mr. Bulodisiye Ndiwari, confirmed that the people of Biseni had donated about 15 hectares of land for the government to develop as a relief camp for flood victims.
The Deputy Governor emphasized the need for sensitization programs to inform residents about the impending flood and the importance of staying safe.
He urged the relevant agencies to work together to ensure the safety of the people and minimize the impact of flooding.
