As part of proactive measures to mitigate the anticipated impact of flooding across Delta State, the state government has constructed six fully equipped Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in strategic, flood-prone locations.
Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Jamani Ejiro, disclosed this during an interview with The Guardian in Asaba at the weekend, outlining the state’s comprehensive flood preparedness strategy.
According to him, the newly established IDP camps, located in Kwale, Ozoro, Patani, Bomadi, Uto-Jeremi, and Asaba, have been outfitted with essential modern facilities, including medical sick bays, security posts, kitchens, and other amenities designed to ensure the safety, health, and comfort of displaced persons.
“We are prepared to evacuate flood victims as the need arises,” Ejiro said. “These camps are fully equipped to provide humane and comfortable shelter for those affected during emergencies.”
To bolster response and coordination, the state government has inaugurated a Flood Disaster Management Committee, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Kingsley Emu.
The committee is tasked with interfacing with traditional rulers and community leaders to raise awareness and sensitize residents in high-risk areas about early evacuation.
In addition, the commissioner revealed that a dedicated task force has been constituted to enforce environmental sanitation laws, particularly targeting the indiscriminate dumping of waste into drainage systems, a major contributor to urban flooding.
Ejiro issued a stern warning to violators, stating that anyone found flouting environmental regulations will be arrested and prosecuted without exception.
“We are taking firm action, including the demolition of illegal structures erected on water channels, especially in Sapele and other flood-prone towns,” he stated.
“Artificial canals will also be constructed to facilitate proper water flow and prevent drainage obstruction.”
He assured the public that the Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Capital Territory Development and other relevant agencies, is working tirelessly to reduce the state’s vulnerability to flood disasters.
“We are on top of the situation. Our coordinated, multi-agency efforts are geared toward ensuring that the anticipated floods do not cause widespread damage in Delta State,” Ejiro affirmed.
The state government’s early action and emphasis on preparedness underscore a growing commitment to disaster risk reduction and public safety in the face of increasingly erratic weather patterns linked to climate change.
