Kebbi State Government has commenced the evacuation and clearing of major drains across the state as part of emergency measures to prevent flooding, while warning residents in lowland and flood-prone areas to relocate immediately.
Commissioner for Urban Development, Hayatuddeen Ahmad Bawa, confirmed the development on Friday in Birnin Kebbi.
He said the exercise was aimed at removing waste and debris from waterways to ensure the free flow of rainwater during the season.
“We have already begun clearing drains to allow for the free flow of water. This is to prevent blockages that could lead to flooding,”; he said.
The exercise follows alerts from the federal government identifying over 1,200 communities nationwide at high risk of flooding, including parts of Kebbi State.
Bawa also urged residents to avoid dumping refuse in drains or building structures along water channels, saying such acts worsen the impact of floods. He advised those living in flood-prone zones to move to higher ground for their safety.
“Government is doing everything possible to minimise the devastating effects of flooding, but residents must also act responsibly,”; he added.
One resident, Hajia Mariya Saidu, said poverty had kept her family in the vulnerable area.
“We know the risk, but we can’t afford safer places,”; she said.
