From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has commissioned a team of environmental and hydrology experts to understudy the acclaimed flood control strategy implemented in Akwa Ibom and Rivers States, during the administrations of Godswill Akpabio and Nyesom Wike as governors, respectively.
The move is in a bid to check the perennial flooding challenges confronting Edo State, particularly the State capital, Benin City.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, Fred Itua, in a statement, said the initiative underscores Governor Okpebholo’s pragmatic approach to governance, premised on learning from working models, and replicating tested solutions that deliver real results for the people.
“The Akwa Ibom and Rivers States’ models, widely acknowledged for transforming some of Nigeria’s most flood-prone areas into States with efficient flood management systems, stand as credible blueprints for what is possible in Edo State.
“With the rainy season already tilting towards its peak, the timing of the exercise is strategic. It provides the experts with a unique opportunity to observe and assess the true extent of flooding in real time across Benin City and other vulnerable parts of the State.
“The focus will be on understanding the terrain, existing drainage infrastructure, and recurring flashpoints of overflow and erosion.
“The technical team from four companies will conduct comprehensive feasibility studies and environmental assessments aimed at designing a permanent and sustainable solution to Benin City’s flood problem.
“Their findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Governor for thorough evaluation and subsequent implementation”, the statement added.
It explained 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 Governor has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance for corruption or cosmetic solutions. 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”, the statement further stated.