Directs coordinated response to recurring flooding
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has directed stakeholders in the state’s environment and infrastructure sectors to submit a comprehensive review of the drainage master plan within one week, outlining both immediate and long-term measures to tackle recurring flooding.
The directive followed the Governor’s inspection of flood-hit communities across Uyo, after which he held a strategic meeting with officials of the Ministries of Environment and Works, the Akwa Ibom State Waste Management Agency, consultants, contractors and other relevant stakeholders.
Governor Eno said the state needs a lasting solution to its flooding challenges rather than temporary interventions, urging all agencies to work together and present a practical action plan within the specified timeframe.
He reiterated that structures obstructing natural drainage channels would be removed to restore the free flow of stormwater, adding that affected property owners would be engaged, with Certificates of Occupancy revoked where necessary and compensation paid in line with the law.
The Governor also appealed to residents to support government efforts by keeping drains free of refuse and avoiding activities that block waterways.
Speaking during the inspection, Eno said the visit was aimed at assessing the extent of the damage and aligning government interventions with a revised flood management strategy.
While sympathising with victims, he noted that although the heavy rainfall triggered the flooding, poor waste disposal and construction on drainage paths had worsened the situation.
He commended the State Emergency Response Team, led by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, alongside contractors who promptly cleared blocked drains and evacuated debris from affected areas.
Senator Eyakenyi praised the Governor’s swift response to the disaster, while Chairman of the Osongama Estate Extension Residents Association, Hon. Ofonmbuk Ukim, expressed appreciation for the Governor’s personal visit and commitment to finding a permanent solution.
Governor Eno inspected affected areas along Ikot Ekpene Road, Nkemba Trough Road, Osongama Estate Extension and Edet Akpan Avenue before chairing the stakeholders’ meeting.
