Abia blames flooding on terrain, heavy rainfall

Abia State authorities have assured residents that flooding experienced along the ongoing Owerrinta Road reconstruction corridor is a temporary situation that will be resolved upon project completion. The assurance came after a viral video showed floodwaters inundating a residential compound.

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While empathising with the affected residents, the Government wishes to assure the public that the situation is receiving attention and will be adequately addressed as part of the ongoing road construction project.

The government attributed the flooding to the area's natural terrain, explaining that the affected compound is situated on a downward slope, making it historically prone to such issues. "Preliminary observations indicate that the affected location has a long-standing topographical challenge arising from its naturally undulating terrain," a statement read. The government noted that while the area has experienced flooding over the years, the current reconstruction work has temporarily amplified the situation.

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Residents and those familiar with the area can attest to the fact that the location has experienced flooding over the years, although the ongoing reconstruction works have temporarily amplified the situation.

Officials dismissed any political motivations behind the incident, stating that the government's priority remains the welfare of residents and the successful execution of the infrastructure project. "The Government remains focused on facts, the welfare of residents, and the successful delivery of quality infrastructure rather than political distractions," the statement emphasized.

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The Government remains focused on facts, the welfare of residents, and the successful delivery of quality infrastructure rather than political distractions.

The government also highlighted that the road project is still under construction. This current phase allows engineers to assess the drainage system and implement necessary adjustments before the project's final completion. The reconstruction and dualization of the road aim to improve residents' quality of life, enhance road safety, and stimulate economic activities in Abia State.

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The objective of the reconstruction and dualisation of the road is to improve the quality of life of the people of Abia State, enhance road safety, and facilitate economic activities, not to create hardship for residents.