Eno orders new flood master plan, demolition of buildings on drainage channels in Akwa Ibom
Governor Orders New Flood Management Plan in Akwa Ibom
UYO, Akwa Ibom—In response to ongoing flooding and property damage in Akwa Ibom State, Governor Pastor Umo Eno has directed the Ministry of Environment to develop a new flood and drainage master plan. He stated that the state’s current flood management strategy fails to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion.
The governor made the announcement during an unexpected inspection of the Judiciary Staff Quarters project in Uyo, where he emphasized the importance of addressing flooding issues urgently. Eno has also instructed the demolition of structures that block natural drainage channels, regardless of ownership or prior approvals.
To further combat flooding, Eno introduced the Clean Akwa Ibom Brigade, a specialized unit under the Ministry of Environment, tasked with keeping drainage systems unobstructed. Additionally, he has urged the Ministry of Environment, the State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, and the Office of the Attorney General to establish Environmental Sanitation Courts. These courts will prosecute individuals who violate sanitation regulations, enforcing community service instead of relying solely on monetary penalties. Offenders will be required to engage in activities like clearing blocked drains.
“We need to have a state flood and drainage master plan. The one we have is old. There are new developments that have taken place. We are bringing all our experts together to develop a comprehensive plan,” Eno stated.
The governor also announced the enforcement of a state-wide movement restriction during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise. Beginning with the last Saturday of each month from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., all movement will be prohibited, including ceremonies, commercial activities, and arriving travelers, until the exercise concludes.
Regarding the Judiciary Staff Quarters project, Eno expressed dissatisfaction with the contractors’ performance, criticizing their apparent negligence and lack of presence at the worksite during key hours.
