Flood sacks residents in Rivers communities

Residents of Oyigbo West and Bua communities in Rivers State have been sacked by flood. It was learnt that the flood submerged some low houses, while mud ones were swept off.

Some residents, in an interview, yesterday, told journalists that the water from Imo River overflowed and flooded their homes during the heavy rain.

It was gathered that water channels around communities in Oyigbo West were poorly constructed. Instead of channeling the water into the river, it was rather flowing into people’s homes.

Residents lamented that the flood has destroyed their properties, farmlands, livestock and businesses, among other valuables. They, therefore, asked government to intervene by constructing proper water channels to the Imo River.

President of the Development of Oyigbo Ethnic Nationality, Victor Okpute, said: “There is need for proper drainage system in the area.

“Government needs to take innovative actions in tackling the flooding challenge. There are so many issues affecting citizens, but government policies are not helping us in addressing our problems.”

A resident, Patience Uzo, said: “Our properties have been destroyed by flood; our families have been displaced and life has become very unbearable. So, we call on local and state governments to come to our aid.

“Government should revisit the drainage system. Instead of channeling flood water to the river, the water was rather flowing to our homes; it is terrible.”

Similarly, the traditional ruler of Bua Community, in Khana Council of the state, Ene Godwin Gbarikpo, has appealed for urgent intervention from the state government.

He said: “The flood was devastating; several houses, especially mud houses have collapsed, low ones were submerged, farmlands and other properties have been destroyed, people have been displaced, so we are asking for intervention.”