Akwa Ibom state governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has issued a one-week ultimatum for a comprehensive review of the state’s drainage master plan as part of decisive measures to tackle the recurring medium floods ravaging parts of Uyo metropolis and other communities across the state.
The governor gave the directive after undertaking an extensive inspection of flood-affected areas in the state capital, where he reaffirmed his administration’s determination to provide both immediate and long-term solutions to the persistent flooding challenge.
Governor Eno warned that buildings erected on natural waterways and drainage channels would be removed to restore the free flow of stormwater and prevent further devastation to lives and property.
Addressing stakeholders at a meeting, following the inspection tour, the governor directed the Ministries of Environment, Works, and Akwa Ibom State Waste Management Agency, consultants, major construction firms and other relevant agencies to immediately convene and submit a detailed action plan within one week.
Describing the flood menace as a shared responsibility, Governor Eno stressed that government alone could not solve the problem without the cooperation of residents, urging citizens to desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse and ensure drains and waterways are kept clear.
“I sympathise with our people who have been affected by the flood. While this situation is not entirely man-made, we have compounded the problem by blocking natural water channels with buildings,” the governor said.
He explained that the inspection was aimed at obtaining firsthand information to properly align government interventions with the state’s flood prevention master plan.
“Any building obstructing natural waterways within the city will have to give way to allow stormwater flow through the drainage system. We will engage affected property owners, revoke Certificates of Occupancy where necessary and provide appropriate compensation to facilitate the removal of such structures,” he stated.
Governor Eno also commended contractors and emergency response teams for their swift intervention in desilting blocked drains, evacuating refuse and clearing debris from affected areas.
He particularly praised the State Emergency Response Team led by the deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, for its commitment in coordinating relief efforts and mitigating the impact of the flooding on affected communities.