By : Ike Philip AbiagomÂ
IBUSA – In a determined effort to curb recurring flooding in Ibusa and other parts of Oshimili North Local Government Area, the council has launched an intensive assessment of flood-prone communities and warned residents against activities that obstruct drainage channels and natural waterways.
The exercise was carried out jointly by the Oshimili North Local Government Council, the Ibusa Community Development Union (ICDU), and the Councillor representing Ward 8, Hon. Ekene Okonkwo, following recent flooding incidents that left several homes submerged and displaced residents.
Leading the inspection team, the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Innocent Esewezie, visited affected locations, including a residence reportedly inundated by floodwaters as a result of blocked drainage systems and encroachment on natural water channels.
The team also inspected Zion Road and other flood flashpoints within the community where residents have continued to battle flooding caused by clogged gutters, indiscriminate waste disposal, and the construction of buildings on drainage routes.
Addressing residents during the exercise, Esewezie expressed concern over the impact of the flooding on families and businesses, assuring the people that the council would take decisive action to prevent a recurrence.
He condemned the practice of dumping refuse into drains and gutters, stressing that such actions obstruct water flow and increase the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.
The council chairman also warned property owners against erecting buildings, fences, and other structures on waterways, declaring that the administration would no longer tolerate violations that endanger lives and property.
According to him, individuals found responsible for obstructing drainage channels or engaging in activities that contribute to flooding would be sanctioned in accordance with the law.
Esewezie emphasized that the fight against flooding requires a collective approach, calling on residents, community leaders, and development associations to work together in maintaining clean and functional drainage systems across the local government area.
He assured affected residents that the council would promptly address the environmental challenges identified during the inspection and implement measures aimed at reducing the menace of flooding.
The chairman noted that the partnership between the local government and the ICDU underscores a shared commitment to finding lasting solutions to environmental and infrastructural challenges facing communities in Oshimili North.
The inspection ended with renewed appeals to residents to support government efforts by keeping drains free of refuse, observing proper waste disposal practices, and respecting designated waterways as part of ongoing efforts to create a safer and healthier environment for all.