The Bayelsa state government has instructed the Ministry of Environment and Sanitation Authority to step up preparations in response to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NiMeT’s) warnings of potential widespread flooding across several states in the country.
During the 138th State Executive Council meeting at the Exco Chamber of Government House in Yenagoa on Wednesday, Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo issued the directive.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo emphasised the importance of full preparedness by both the people and the state government for any potential flood emergency, noting that Bayelsa serves as the exit point where waters from River Niger and Benue River flow into the Atlantic Ocean.
He specifically tasked the Environment Ministry and the Sanitation Authority with ensuring thorough clearing and opening of natural water canals to allow unobstructed water flow and prevent avoidable flooding.
The deputy governor reiterated his call for the people of the state to refrain from indiscriminate disposal of waste in drainages and other water channels to prevent flooding and environmental pollution.
He said: “As you are aware, Bayelsa State is the receptacle from which all the water from River Niger and River Benue exit into the Atlantic Ocean. And so, it will be necessary for us to be on hyper-alert.
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“Even though this year’s flood may not be as huge and high as 2012 or 2022, we really have to prepare ourselves because we believe prevention is cheaper than cure.
“While it is inevitable and natural, we must also take steps as citizens to ensure that our drainages are cleared. We must also desist from the habit of dumping refuse on our drainages.
“On this note, His Excellency, the Governor is hereby directing the Ministry of Environment to liaise with the state Environmental Sanitation Authority to ensure that there is regular clearing of drainages.”
While expressing satisfaction with the level of preparedness so far by the State Emergency Management Agency, he urged the local government councils to complement the state government’s efforts by putting measures in place to alleviate the suffering of the people in the event of any devastating flooding experience.
He also thanked security agencies for the sacrifices they are making to keep the state safe for investments and socio-economic activities to thrive in Bayelsa.
Ewhrudjakpo seized the opportunity to appreciate Bayelsans for their abiding support and love for the Governor Douye Diri-led prosperity government and enjoined them to prepare for the state’s annual Thanksgiving service on the 2nd of November, 2024.