Flooding has disrupted businesses, movement and other daily activities in parts of Rivers State, prompting the state government to begin an emergency response in affected communities.
Several areas of Port Harcourt and its environs have been affected, with residents reporting blocked access routes, submerged vehicles, disrupted work and school activities, as well as growing sanitation concerns.
The state government, through its Flood Management and Control Committee, has commenced inspections of some of the worst-hit locations to identify the factors contributing to the flooding and determine immediate and long-term solutions.
Govt inspects affected communities
Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, who led officials on an inspection of affected areas, visited Lord Emmanuel Close and Jerusalem Estate, where residents took the team round locations affected by floodwaters.
Officials observed concerns around drainage channels and the diversion of water, while attempts to reclaim parts of an existing canal at Lord Emmanuel Close also came under scrutiny.
Odu said the findings from the inspection would be presented to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, after which the Ministry of Works would work with residents and community leaders to address the identified problems.
She also said families affected by the flooding would receive immediate palliative assistance while the government develops longer-term measures.
Businesses, schools affected
The impact of the flooding has been particularly noticeable in Igbo-Etche, where floodwaters reportedly cut off residents of the Rivers State Housing Estate from surrounding communities.
Some workers have reportedly been unable to reach their workplaces, while school activities and businesses have also been affected.
Residents said some vehicles had been submerged, making movement in and out of the area difficult.
Beyond the disruption to economic activities, residents are also worried about sanitation and public health. Reports indicate that reptiles have emerged from floodwaters, while overflowing septic tanks have raised concerns about possible contamination and disease outbreaks.
Govt examines drainage, canal problems
The state government has also been investigating claims about the role of drainage infrastructure in the flooding.
During another inspection, officials said they found canals obstructed by waste and debris, while some wetlands had reportedly been converted into residential areas, reducing their ability to absorb excess water.
The government has urged residents to stop using drainage channels and wetlands as dumping grounds or construction sites, saying such activities can worsen flooding.
The authorities said affected households would be identified for relief assistance, while further engineering assessments would be conducted to determine permanent solutions.
As the emergency response continues, residents in flood-prone communities have called for urgent action to restore access roads, clear drainage channels and prevent further deterioration of sanitation conditions.
The latest flooding has once again highlighted the economic and social consequences of inadequate drainage, blocked waterways and development around natural flood channels in parts of Rivers State.
