By Endurance Ikanone
The Delta State Government has announced sweeping measures to curb perennial flooding in Sapele and its adjoining communities, with a focus on the removal of illegal structures and the desilting of major drainage channels. The intervention, spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), was unveiled during a joint inspection tour of flood-affected areas on Monday.
Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ejiro Jamani, who led the delegation, identified key flood-prone flashpoints in Sapele and Amukpe and warned that drastic actions would be taken against residents and businesses obstructing waterways.
“Flooding in Sapele is not a natural disaster in the strict sense—it is man-made and avoidable,” Jamani said pointedly. “We have identified critical areas such as Okirigbagha, Power Line, Shell Road, New Road Junction, Otakpo Bruno Street, Uton River by Army checkpoint, Orakpo Canal, Owumi Road Canal, Reclamation Dumpsite, and Ogodo Road Canal near Church of God Mission as hotspots. Our technical teams are already preparing to open up these blocked canals to restore free flow of water.”
Jamani stressed that beyond infrastructural interventions, the Ministry had stepped up public education campaigns to sensitise residents on the dangers of obstructing water channels and indiscriminate waste disposal.
“Some residents and even corporate entities have built on water channels. This is environmentally dangerous and directly causes flooding. Let it be clear, the task force on demolition of illegal structures has been directed to act without delay. Those found culpable will face demolition and legal consequences,” the Commissioner warned.
He noted that the intervention was in line with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s directive for a coordinated response to the worsening flood situation in oil-producing communities.