The Delta State Government has started opening significant canals in Warri, Uvwie, Udu, Sapele, Ughelli, and other towns in the State as part of steps to lessen the impact of an impending flood that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NIMET, has warned about.
OBASANJO NEWS24 has learned that this is done to permit unrestricted water flow into rivers.
In some coastal states of the federation this year, severe flooding was expected, according to NIMET.
The canal cleaning was overseen by Frank Omare, Director-General, Special Duties, Government House, Asaba.
From Effurun in the Uvwie Local Government Area in the Delta down to Warri in the Warri South Local Government Area, clearance took place.
In an interview with newsmen, Omare stated that the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led Delta State Government was adamant about doing everything in its ability to ensure that flooding is under control in the State.
He declared that all illegal buildings obstructing State waterways will be demolished by the government starting the next week.
No matter how powerful their position, he issued a warning that nothing could stop the demolition project.
He further clarified that no one was the target of a government witch hunt.
“The ministry of urban renewal, their officials are on the ground, the ministry of justice, their officials are on the ground, and if we find out that some of these buildings were actually approved, then we will refer them to Asaba and they will be adequately compensated because we don’t want to illegally solve an illegal problem. We must follow the law to the letter.
Therefore, there is no need for anyone to be alarmed, but if you are aware that your building is above our waterways, kindly go and remove it.
“Nobody will be the target of a witch hunt. The buildings will be marked for demolition by the Urban and Regional Planning officials as they travel the area.
“Deltans shouldn’t be alarmed because we won’t break any laws, so they shouldn’t be afraid. However, nobody is authorised to ask the Governor or Frank Omare to take the other side. We’re going to complete it and do it well.
So, as community members, we want you to kindly inform anyone who is building over the canals that they are doing it wrong. However, until we have a better atmosphere in Delta State, we will not give up,” Omare stated.
