Onyeche Wofurum Igwe
Rivers State Government has issued a warning to residents, advising them to prepare for potential floods as the state has been listed among high-risk areas by the federal government.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo, the government emphasized the need for residents to take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property.
In response to the warning, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is deploying teams to Rivers State and other risk-prone regions to sensitize residents on flood preparedness and mitigation measures.
The Rivers State Government has expressed support for this initiative and urged residents, especially those in flood-prone communities, to take the situation seriously.
The government has also reiterated its stance against illegal land reclamation activities, which can exacerbate environmental degradation and worsen flooding conditions, warning that it will not tolerate such activities and will take strict legal action against individuals or organizations found culpable.
To mitigate the impact of potential flooding, the government has advised residents to take several precautions which include clearing drainages and avoiding dumping waste in waterways, relocating to safer grounds if residing in flood-prone areas, cooperating with emergency response teams, and heeding official advisories.
Additionally, residents are encouraged to report any instance of illegal land reclamation or other environmental violations to the appropriate authorities, as it will help in ensuring that the environment is protected and that those responsible for environmental degradation are held accountable.
The statement said: “In light of the heightened flood risk, the Rivers state government also reiterated its stance against illegal land reclamation activities, which exacerbate environmental degradation and worsen flooding conditions.
“Unapproved reclamation of wetlands and other ecologically sensitive areas disrupts natural drainage systems, putting communities at greater risk during heavy rainfall.
“The government warns that it will not tolerate such activities and will take strict legal action against individuals or organisations found culpable. Offenders will face prosecution in accordance with environmental protection laws.
“The Rivers State Government remains committed to protecting the environment and ensuring the safety of all residents. We urge everyone to take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of potential flooding and adhere to environmental regulations.”
