The Delta State Government has charged residents of Ethiope West Local Government Area to desist from building on waterways and dumping refuse in drainages as part of measures to curb flooding in the area.
The Commissioner, Bureau of Special Duties, Hon. Terry Etacherure, gave the warning on Monday during an on-the-spot assessment of flood-hit communities in Oghara, the LGA headquarters.
‘Government Cannot Do It Alone. Etacherure said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is committed to the welfare of citizens, hence his visit to ascertain the extent of flooding and proffer solutions.
However, he stressed that residents also have a critical role to play in safeguarding their environment.
“As citizens you have the responsibility to take care of your environment. You cannot expect the government to construct drainage and still expect the government to maintain it for you,” the Commissioner stated.
He urged residents to stop erecting structures on water channels and to evacuate blocked drainages around their homes.
The Commissioner directed the Environmental Department of Ethiope West LGA to embark on immediate sensitization campaigns and ensure all blocked drainages are cleared across the local government.
Speaking on behalf of the Oghara people, Mr. Edafe Abada said days of heavy rainfall had submerged several homes, rendering many residents homeless.
The Commissioner sympathised with victims of the flood and assured them that the government would look into possible long-term solutions to address the menace in the locality.
