Flood control: Delta govt commences demolition of buildings on waterways

The Delta State Government has commenced  the demolish structures and illegal constructions situated on natural water channels as part of its strategy to mitigate flooding within the state.

The process of demolition, coupled with a dredging operation, was launched in Uvwie Local Government Area and is slated to extend to flood-prone zones including Warri, Udu, Ughelli, and other areas.

Supervision of this endeavor was undertaken by Mr. Frank Omare, the Director-General of Special Duties at the Governor’s Office in Asaba. He guided the amphibious swam buggy to the designated location, accompanied by soldiers from the 3 Battalion of the Nigerian Army stationed in Effurun.

Several structures, among them an unfinished church and a multi-story building, were dismantled in Ugboroke, Uvwie Local Government Area, signifying the commencement of the demolition initiative.

Omare elucidated during a conversation with journalists that his mandate encompasses removing unauthorized constructions throughout the state, spanning all local government areas.

“This is just the beginning, and we have given them over two months to ensure that those who have erected buildings on natural waterways dismantle them. Those without approved plans should also remove their structures, but they have deliberately refused,” he remarked.

Pointing out the dire flooding situation in Ugboroke, where even a 10-minute rainfall results in extensive inundation, Omare stressed that such circumstances cannot persist. He emphasized that the government’s actions are driven by collective interest and will remain impartial.

Omare reinforced the notion that no individual interests would sway the enforcement. He likened the falling of a yellow leaf to serve as a warning to the green ones, symbolizing the commencement of the campaign. Despite the prevailing challenges, he underscored the necessity to adhere to proper protocol.

“We possess about seven pieces of equipment scattered across Warri South and Uvwie local government areas. Once we complete this phase, we will extend to other locales. It’s a signal to everyone,” he affirmed.

He made it clear that no building will be exempt from the endeavor, regardless of the parties involved. Omare stressed that adherence to regulations, including constructing five meters away from drainage systems, is imperative. He indicated the support of the Ministry of Land and Survey and the Urban Renewal unit to ensure the process’s validity.

Omare concluded by affirming the determination and focus behind the initiative, assuring that no victimization would occur and emphasizing the substantial investment being made to execute the operation.