Flooding: Akwa Ibom gov orders demolition of buildings on drainage channels

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has issued a stern directive for the demolition of buildings erected on designated drainage channels, as part of intensified efforts to tackle persistent flooding in Uyo metropolis and other communities. The order came after an unscheduled inspection of the Judiciary Staff Quarters project in Uyo on Wednesday.

Governor Eno declared that the government would no longer tolerate illegal developments that obstruct waterways and worsen flooding. He emphasized that any structure found on drainage routes would be demolished, irrespective of ownership, status, or previous approvals. This directive follows a significant flood event last Thursday that displaced numerous residents in areas including Nkemba Street, Itu Road, Osongama Estate, and Shelter Afrique, as well as some communities in Abak Local Government Area.

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Government will no longer tolerate developments that endanger public safety by blocking waterways and worsening flooding in surrounding communities. Any building henceforth that is found on designated drainage routes will be demolished regardless of ownership, status or previous approvals.

"Government will no longer tolerate developments that endanger public safety by blocking waterways and worsening flooding in surrounding communities. Any building henceforth that is found on designated drainage routes will be demolished regardless of ownership, status or previous approvals," Eno stated. The governor also announced plans to develop a new flood and drainage master plan to address the state's evolving urban landscape, noting that the current plan is outdated and does not reflect rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion.

To bolster environmental initiatives, Governor Eno revealed the establishment of the Clean Akwa Ibom Brigade, a specialized unit under the Ministry of Environment dedicated to clearing drainage channels and preventing floods. This brigade will complement existing environmental agencies by focusing specifically on drainage maintenance and flood control. Furthermore, the governor directed the Ministry of Environment, the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, and the Office of the Attorney-General to establish Environmental Sanitation Courts to prosecute offenders of sanitation laws, with a focus on community service rather than solely fines.

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We need to have a state flood and drainage master plan. The one we have is old. There are new developments that have taken place. We are bringing all our experts together and will develop the state flood master plan so that we can use it.