Residents of erosion prone areas in Uyo metropolis have defied government directive to vacate even as flood have continued to threaten buildings around those arears.
The areas which include Asutan street, Ikpa and Uyo village roads have been completely cut off with buildings at the verge of collapse .
It was gathered that instead of the residents to adhere to government directive to vacate the area, they sent save our soul message to Governor Udom Emmanuel requesting for alternative accommodation or compensation.
The victims under the body of Asutan Street Ravine Neighbourhood landlord forum pleaded with the governor to either address the issue of ravine encroachment or pay them compensation to enable them relocate to safer environment.
They however expressed fear that as the rains are getting intense, landslide may be triggered saying more buildings risk collapse.
Similarly, residents of Ikpa road and its environs in Uyo have also raised the alarm over the collapsed section of the community road.
It was gathered that the road which leads to the government Science Park and the Uyo City Polytechnic, a private institution in the state, collapsed due to encroachment of a deep gully erosion, thereby rendering the place impassable.
Students of the Polytechnics, motorists and other residents have recounted the challenges and difficulties they face in crossing over the road.
A resident who identified himself as Emmanuel Okon called on the state government to save lives and property by intervening on the road without delay.
“We are calling on the state government to save us from this looming disaster. It needs urgent attention because if it rains two or three times again, the buildings will collapse.” He said.
However , the commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals Mr. Charles Udoh, has in different fora advised the occupants of Asutan streets and other erosion prone areas to vacate to a safer place and save their lives first.
Though no alternative provision was made for their relocation by the State government, the Commissioner has already issued threat notice with the erection of caution barriers around the vicinity.
The statement in parts, “This was to allow for site evaluation survey, development of engineering drawings as well as Bill of Engineering Measurements and Evaluation to guide the restoration works. These processes are currently ongoing.
“In the interim, members of the public are advised to avoid the vicinity, while motorists should use alternative routes.
“Residents, citizens and businesses in the affected neighborhoods are advised to remain vigilant and evacuate the vicinity for now.”
