As flooding continues to wreak havoc across parts of Rivers State, the Administrator of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Dr. Ndu Walter, has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures obstructing drainage channels in the area.
During an inspection of heavily flooded areas around Eliozu and Eliogbolo, Dr. Walter blamed indiscriminate construction along waterways for the worsening flood crisis. He directed the local government’s Flood Committee and Sanitation Taskforce to begin dismantling all structures impeding water flow.
“Obio/Akpor has been listed among the most flood-prone LGAs this year,” he said, citing ongoing efforts by the local government, including the activation of a Flood Response Committee, to mitigate the situation. “What we are facing now is the worst flood incident in our history. The primary cause is blocked drainage systems due to illegal developments.”
Dr. Walter expressed deep concern for affected residents and businesses, assuring them that the council is fully committed to tackling the emergency. “We sympathize with everyone impacted by the flooding. We’re taking firm steps to manage the crisis and reduce the damage.”
Acknowledging the scale of the disaster, the Obio/Akpor Administrator appealed for urgent intervention from the Rivers State Government, particularly in desilting canals, clearing drainages, and supporting emergency response operations.
“This is beyond the capacity of the local government alone. We need the state government’s support to effectively deal with this challenge,” he added.
Dr. Walter reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to do all it can to contain the situation and prevent further escalation.
