The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has urged the State Ministry of Environment to adopt adequate preventive flood management strategies to protect coastal communities vulnerable to flooding as the rainy season begins.
Additionally, the Assembly has tasked the Akwa Ibom State Waste Protection and Management Agency (AKSEPMA) to maintain and initiate the clearing of drainage systems across the state, along with conducting public awareness campaigns.
This call to action followed a motion by the member for Etim Ekpo/Ika state constituency, Rt. Hon. Mfon Idung, on the urgent need for proactive flood management measures in anticipation of the upcoming rainy season.
Idung noted: “These flood incidents have continued to claim lives as well as property of residents of the state, thereby casting a shadow over socio-economic prospects of the state, conscious of the environment protecting policies of Governor Umo Eno which has initiated several intervention projects such as the 0.9km underground out fall drain spanning Uyo and Itu LGA”.
He warned that if the anticipated heavy rains commence without putting in place necessary preventive measures, the state may be exposed to extensive damage of property and loss of lives .
The motion was seconded by Hon. Moses Essien, representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency. The Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, who presided over the session, directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. NsikakAbasi Orok, to communicate with the relevant authorities on the matter for immediate action.
Meanwhile, the House has adjourned plenary to resume on Tuesday, 20th May, 2025 at 10 a.m.
Press Unit,
Office of the Speaker,
Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA).
