The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced that any structure built on the water ways, which does not allow for proper drainage, will be demolished to avoid collapse of buildings or flood.
The Deputy Governor, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi, who is the Chairman of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), made this known on Tuesday, during the inspection of flooded areas and poor drainage system in Uyo, the state capital.
She advised residents and the relevant agencies, particularly the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA) to be mindful of where they give approval for building, emphasizing that no construction should be made on the water ways to avoid demolition.
“For the agencies who give approval for construction of buildings, ensure that the land is inspected properly before giving approvals. We need to be conscious, we have to protect ourselves and our lives as government is also protecting us” she added.
Recalling how the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) identified Akwa Ibom as one of the states that will experience flood disaster in 2024, Dr Eyakenyi said the Umo Eno administration was proactive, having put certain measures in place to control flood and drastically reduce its effects on the citizens.
She urged residents to relocate to a safer environment, if their areas had been identified as prone to flood in order to avoid loss of lives.
She further appealed that residents should desist from filling drainages with refuse, explaining that if the drainages are kept clean, water would flow.
Also speaking during the inspection, Prof. Eno Ibanga, Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, assured that work will commence immediately, particularly channeling water out of certain areas which were identified as areas of drain.
He stated that since no one could predict the rains, the Ministry of Works was ready to swing into action to avoid more losses in the state.
The affected areas visited were, the Ewet Housing Extension, Gloria Amana and adjoining streets in Osongama Estate, Methodist Church Cathedral, Itiam Etoi, along Oron road and the Nsikak Eduok drainage.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied by the Surveyor General of the state, Surv Emem Isang; Chairman Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA), Prince Ikim; MD Bulletine Construction Company, SEMA and NEMA officials, amongst others.
