By Francis Sadhere, Warri
Chief John Nani, Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Area Commission (DESOPADEC), has reaffirmed Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s dedication to achieving a flood-free Delta State. He said this during an inspection tour of ongoing canal desilting projects.
The tour, conducted in Sapele Local Government Area, is part of a broader initiative to clear and maintain drainage systems across the state to mitigate flooding.
Nani, also noted that Governor Oborevwori has put proactive measures in place to address potential flooding, including the establishment of a Flood Disaster Management Committee led by Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu. This committee is tasked with assisting individuals displaced by flooding.
He also announced that the government is addressing illegal structures obstructing drainage channels and waterways. He urged those with such structures to remove them immediately, as demolition of these structures has commenced.
Nani highlighted the progress made, noting that DESOPADEC has been actively working on several key locations, including the Kiagbodo/Bikorogha Canal, Bekederemo River in Kiagbodo, Ika Isoko Bomadi, Agbaroh, Echerode Canal in Ughelli, Udu Jakpa Road in Effurun, and Okere Link Road in Warri.
Despite these efforts, Nani stressed ongoing challenges, particularly the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into cleared canals, which threatens to reverse progress and exacerbate flooding.
“We urge residents to support the government’s efforts by properly disposing of their waste through appropriate channels,” Nani said.
During a visit to the Ugbeku Canal in Amukpe, Sapele Local Government Area, Hon. Ejiro Jamani, Commissioner for Environment, praised the governor for the extensive efforts made to prepare the state for the upcoming rainy season. He called on residents to take responsibility for their environment, avoid illegal waste disposal, and report any violations to maintain a safe and habitable living space.
“Delta State is prepared, but we need everyone’s cooperation to ensure the effectiveness of these measures,” Jamani emphasized.
