Ekiti State government has allayed residents’ fears of flooding, saying proactive measures have been taken to avert flooding in the state.
This, the state commissioner for environment and natural resources, Erelu Aluko Ajisafe, said was to safeguard lives of residents and public infrastructure in the state.
The move was in response to Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) prediction that Ekiti and thirteen other states nationwide would experience heavy rainfall for seven days this week.
Aluko Ajisafe in a statement made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti advised state residents to take NiMet’s predictions seriously.
She, however, noted that the state government, through the ministry, has initiated efforts, including clearing blocked drainages and waterways in Ado, Ikere, and Ekiti South-West local government areas to avert possible flooding.
In line with the NiMet Advisory, the commissioner said the government has also approved a work plan that includes aggressive desiltation of lined drains, culverts, and access slabs in Ado, Ikere, and Irepodun/Ifelodun local government, which are considered to be high-risk flood zones between June and October 2024.
She explained that the ministry has equally launched a public awareness campaign involving information dissemination through radio announcements, social media, and community engagement to educate residents on flood safety measures.
According to her, the ministry was working closely with relevant Ministries/Departments/Agencies and local councils to identify flood-prone areas within their jurisdiction and coordinate advocacy campaigns and mitigation measures, specifically in Ado Ekiti, considered a high-risk flood zone in the state.
The commissioner said the Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources remains fully committed to prioritising the safety and well-being of the state’s residents by working together with relevant MDAs/LGAs/ and LCDAs so that members of the public can effectively mitigate the impact of potential flash flooding and ensure timely responses in case of any emergencies that might arise.
