Gov Eno sympathises with flood victims, cautions against blockage of drains

As residents of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State continue to count their losses over the flooding incident of Thursday, Governor Umo Eno has expressed his sympathy for victims.

While describing rainfall as a natural occurrence, he warned residents against dumping refuse into drainage channels, saying that such act worsen flood incidents.

The governor, while speaking to journalists at the Victor Attah International Airport, acknowledged government’s responsibility to respond to the disaster, noting that relevant agencies will continue to desilt major drainage channels and intervene where necessary.

He urged the people to always draw government’s attention to areas where major desilting are needed.

“The rains have just started. The government is not responsible for the rain; it is a natural occurrence. Everyone must join hands to ensure our culverts and drainage channels are free-flowing so they do not become blocked.” He said.

The Governor recalled that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, had earlier warned of heavy rainfall and possible flooding, adding that tackling the challenge requires a collective effort by the government and the people.

He called on all residents to complement government efforts by ensuring that drainage channels around their homes and business premises are kept free of refuse and other obstructions to allow the free flow of storm water.