The Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has issued a stern warning to residents against building on waterways and dumping waste in drainages as part of efforts to tackle the state’s recurring flood challenges......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Hon. Sylvester Ovbije, the DESOPADEC board member representing the Urhobo ethnic nationality, made this call during an inspection tour of ongoing dredging and clearing projects at Oviri Agbarho in Ughelli North Local Government Area. He emphasized that the obstruction of water channels, such as drains and natural waterways, remains a significant cause of flooding across Delta State.
Ovbije further noted that the government will no longer tolerate the construction of illegal structures that block waterways, causing rainwater to flood homes and contributing to the spread of diseases. He also disclosed that a state task force has been established to remove such structures and enforce compliance with regulations.
Residents were urged to use the approved Private Sector Participation (PSP) waste disposal systems and to consult relevant government agencies before purchasing land to avoid building across waterways. Ovbije praised the Delta State Government, under the leadership of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for initiating desilting operations through DESOPADEC to clear blocked canals and allow for free water flow in anticipation of heavy rains.
One local resident, Pastor Stephen Ekohwo, whose home is near the canal, expressed his gratitude for the intervention. “Flooding has plagued our area for the past ten years due to blocked canals and improper construction on waterways,” he said. “I commend DESOPADEC and the Delta State Government for their efforts and hope to see additional drainage systems constructed in Agbarho.”
DESOPADEC’s initiative is part of the broader state plan to mitigate the effects of flooding and protect communities from the devastating impacts it brings.