Flooding: Gov Aiyedatiwa warns against waste dumping, building on waterways

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has warned residents against indiscriminate waste disposal and the erection of structures on waterways, stressing that such practices heighten the risk of flooding despite the state’s proactive control measures.

The Governor issued the warning on Sunday while receiving the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) team, led by Dr. Bandele Onimode, Director of Planning, Research, and Forecasting, at the Government House.

“We have discovered that some people still build without plan or approval, blocking drainage channels and causing floods. Citizens must support the government by keeping the environment clean and refraining from dumping refuse into waterways”.

He assured that the government would continue to monitor vulnerable areas while responding promptly to any emergencies.

Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for collaborating with the state to train emergency responders at state and local government levels on disaster preparedness. The two-day programme, he said, would equip officers with the necessary skills to act swiftly during unforeseen emergencies.

He described Ondo State’s inclusion among the seven states selected for the project as a privilege, noting that it was not because the state is the most prone to disasters, but due to its proactive stance and the commitment of his administration to disaster prevention.

“We are intentional and deliberate about preventing emergencies, especially in the area of flood control. The Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Infrastructure are working together to deploy our swamp buggy machine for extensive channelization before the rains start. This is why we have largely been spared of major flooding this year, except for rising water levels in riverine areas,” the governor said.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also highlighted the state’s swift response to a recent incident where strong winds damaged the Akure Airport tower, restoring normal operations within three days to avoid disruption of air travel.

He further lamented the long-standing sea incursion in Aiyetoro community, describing it as a pathetic situation that had defied past measures.

“The Aiyetoro case is a major problem that requires careful design. Nothing concrete had been done before now, but with the current approach, I believe we will finally provide a lasting solution for Aiyetoro and other affected communities,” Aiyedatiwa assured.

Earlier, NEMA’s Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, Dr. Bandele Onimode, explained that the EPR project, supported by the World Bank, is designed to help Ondo State develop a robust emergency response plan.

According to him, the project will involve hazard mapping, community sensitization, data collection and analysis, and training of residents on appropriate response measures during disasters.

“This project is taking place in only seven states in Nigeria, and Ondo was chosen because of the state government’s commitment to disaster preparedness. The World Bank will also identify specific projects in the state for possible support,” Onimode said.

He appealed to the state government to ensure the sustainability of the project by integrating it into its long-term development plans.

On the role of the World Bank in the project, Mr. Francis Nkoka explained that the institution’s mandate is not only to provide financial assistance to both the state and federal governments, but also to offer technical support.

“In our discussions with NEMA, we recognized the need to place strong emphasis on preparedness. However, we also understand that, despite our best efforts, disasters can still occur. Therefore, we must also strengthen the capacity to respond effectively when they happen,” Nkoka said.

He added that the World Bank would work closely with NEMA to guide the process, offering technical expertise in preparedness assessments as well as in enhancing emergency response capabilities.

In attendance were; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor’s office, Mr Idowu Ojo, Secretary, Ondo State Emergency Management Agency (ODSEMA), Mr Orunko Frederick, Desk Officer, ODSEMA, Mr Kehinde Ayesa.