The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) has appealed to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to address the risk of future flooding in the territory.
President of REDAN, Dr. Aliyu Wamakko, made the plea yesterday during a press conference to proffer solutions to the recent flooding that affected certain parts of Abuja, where residents were struck by heavy rainfall in the early hours of Friday.
The flooding incident forced some individuals within the Federal Capital Territory to swim out of the estate in search of safety, while several houses were submerged as the flood engulfed communities in the FCT.
Wamakko noted that the Global Warming Authority had previously issued a warning about potential floods in the West Africa sub-region due to this year’s heavy rainfall.
He expressed condolences to the victims who suffered property loss in the flood disaster, stating, “We also call on the authorities to share in the grief of the victims and refrain from exacerbating their situation. This calamity is not their fault but a natural disaster.”
During REDAN’s visit to Trademor, one of the affected areas in Lugbe, alongside officials from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), it was observed that certain houses suspected of obstructing waterways had been earmarked for demolition.
He emphasised the importance of implementing proper infrastructure and drainage channels to address the issue.
“Since the completion of Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Way, the problem of flooding in the Lugbe axis, particularly in Lugbe, Lokogoma, and surrounding communities, has persisted. Therefore, I believe the FCT Administration needs to take action,” stated Wamakko.
Furthermore, Wamakko advised residents against constructing houses on waterways and dumping waste in drainage systems to prevent flooding.
The REDAN president said the association would continue to support the efforts of the federal government in mitigating flood disasters.
He stressed the need for relevant agencies to effectively raise awareness among Nigerians regarding the warnings issued by the Global Warming Authority regarding this year’s rainfall predictions, aiming to prevent the loss of lives and property due to flooding.
