The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has appointed a group of environmental and hydrology specialists to study the renowned flood control measures adopted in Akwa Ibom and Rivers States during the tenures of Governors Godswill Akpabio and Nyesom Wike, respectively.
In a statement signed and made available to Naija News on Tuesday, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor, Fred Itua, said the move was in accordance with the governor’s determination to tackle the ongoing flooding issues facing Edo State, especially in the State capital, Benin City.
He stressed that the initiative highlights Governor Okpebholo’s practical approach to governance, which is based on learning from effective models and replicating proven solutions that yield tangible benefits for the populace.
“The flood management strategies of Akwa Ibom and Rivers States,recognised for their success in transforming some of Nigeria’s most flood-affected regions into areas with effective flood management systems, serve as credible templates for what can be achieved in Edo State.
“With the rainy season approaching its peak, the timing of this initiative is strategic. It offers the experts a valuable opportunity to observe and evaluate the actual extent of flooding in real-time across Benin City and other susceptible areas of the State.
“The emphasis will be on comprehending the landscape, the current drainage systems, and the recurring hotspots of overflow and erosion.
“The technical team, comprising four companies, will carry out extensive feasibility studies and environmental assessments aimed at devising a permanent and sustainable solution to the flooding issues in Benin City.
“Their findings and recommendations will be presented to the Governor for detailed review and subsequent action,” the statement noted.
The statement further highlighted that private and commercial houses built along waterways will be demolished by the administration to pave the way for proper surface and underground drainages, especially in Government Reservation Areas in Benin City.
“Property owners with verified documents will be compensated by the Government, while others will be relocated to safe areas.
“Governor Okpebholo’s bold multifaceted flood control project across the State capital will commence after the heavy rains, and the project will be completed in no distant time.
“The Government is committed to ensuring that this process is neither cosmetic nor politicized but rather driven by empirical data and genuine concern for the safety and wellbeing of Edo residents.
“Unlike the intervention by the last administration that was marred by mismanagement, half-hearted execution, and diversion of funds under the guise of erosion control, this new initiative will be comprehensive, transparent, and targeted at delivering a permanent fix,” the statement noted.
The Governor has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance for corruption or cosmetic solutions.
He said every kobo earmarked for the projects will be accounted for and directed solely toward its intended purpose, the protection of lives, properties, and the environment.
“Governor Okpebholo remains unwavering in his pledge to make Benin City and its environs more resilient, livable, and economically viable. This bold intervention is part of his broader development agenda to reposition Edo State as a model of modern urban infrastructure and environmental planning in Nigeria.
“The era of seasonal flooding, paralyzing communities, and threatening livelihoods in Edo is coming to an end.
“The administration of Governor Okpebholo is taking firm steps to deliver a future where residents will no longer live in fear each time it rains. The people of Edo can look forward to a new lease of life marked by proactive leadership and responsive governance,” the statement concluded.
The post Benin Flooding: Gov Okpebholo Intervenes, Hires Experts To Understudy Prone Areas, Replicate Akwa Ibom Model appeared first on Naija News.