The Rivers State Government has announced that the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, is deploying teams to Rivers State and other high-risk regions to sensitize residents on flood preparedness and mitigation strategies.
This development follows a recent advisory from the Federal Government, identifying Rivers State as one of the areas at elevated risk of flooding this year.
In a statement on Tuesday, signed by the Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, the state government urged all residents, particularly those living in flood-prone communities, to take precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.
The government also reaffirmed its stance against illegal land reclamation activities, warning that such practices contribute to environmental degradation and significantly increase the risk of flooding.
It noted that the “unapproved reclamation of wetlands and other ecologically sensitive areas disrupts natural drainage systems, leaving communities more vulnerable during periods of heavy rainfall.”;
The statement further warned that illegal reclamation activities would not be tolerated.
The government pledged to enforce strict legal action against individuals or organizations found to be in violation of environmental laws.
Residents were advised to, “clear drainages in their surroundings; avoid dumping waste into waterways; relocate from flood-prone areas to safer locations; cooperate fully with emergency response teams and comply with official advisories; and report illegal reclamation or other environmental violations to the appropriate authorities.”;
The Rivers State Government reiterated its commitment to environmental protection and the safety of all residents.
It called on the public to “take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of potential flooding and adhere strictly to all environmental regulations.”;
Rivers State is usually one of the states flagged for possible flooding every year.
The areas typically affected are the Orashi region which comprises Ahoada East, Ahoada West and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni local government areas.
