Flooding: Edo to understudy Wike, Akpabio model
The Edo State Government has commissioned a team of environmental and hydrology experts to visit Rivers and Akwa Ibom States to study the flood control strategy adopted by both States to tackle flooding.
Recent rainfall caused heavy flooding in most parts of Benin City.
The team was tasked with revisiting strategies adopted during the administrations of Nyesom Wike and Godswill Akpabio.
the chief press secretary to Governor Okpebholo, in a statement, said the approach is premised on learning from working models and replicating tested solutions that delivered real results for the people.
Itua noted that the Akwa Ibom and Rivers States’ models were widely acknowledged for transforming some of Nigeria’s most flood-prone areas into States with efficient flood management systems.
He said the models stood as credible blueprints for what is possible in Edo State.
According to him, “With the rainy season already tilting towards its peak, the timing of the exercise is strategic. It provides the experts with a unique opportunity to observe and assess the true extent of flooding in real time across Benin City and other vulnerable parts of the State.
“The focus will be on understanding the terrain, existing drainage infrastructure, and recurring flashpoints of overflow and erosion.
“Their findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Governor for thorough evaluation and subsequent implementation.
“Similarly, private and commercial houses built along waterways will be demolished by the administration to pave the way for proper surface and underground drainage, especially in Government Reservation Areas in Benin City.
“Property owners with verified documents will be compensated by the Government, while others will be relocated to safe areas.
“Governor Okpebholo’s bold multifaceted flood control project across the State capital will commence after the heavy rains, and the project will be completed in no distant time.
“Unlike the intervention by the last administration that was marred by mismanagement, half-hearted execution, and diversion of funds under the guise of erosion control, this new initiative will be comprehensive, transparent, and targeted at delivering a permanent fix.
“The era of seasonal flooding, paralysing communities, and threatening livelihoods in Edo is coming to an end.
“The administration of Governor Okpebholo is taking firm steps to deliver a future where residents will no longer live in fear each time it rains. The people of Edo can look forward to a new lease of life marked by proactive leadership and responsive governance.”
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