From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
There is palpable fear among residents of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, following heavy rain that caused flash floods in several locations on Monday.
Bayelsa has been listed by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) as one of the states likely to experience heavy rain and flooding.
Residents in several affected locations lamented that the state government had done little to assure them of their safety regarding imminent flooding.
In Okaka, residents blamed the poor drainage system for the flash floods caused by the rain.
According to Tam Odoki, a resident, the government should immediately implement its mitigation plans instead of waiting until houses are submerged.
In Swali, off Aeroplane Road, opposite the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Yenagoa office, residents complained that a partially blocked canal caused the flash floods.
“The downpour affected us due to the canal in the area that is not flowing well,” said Mike Igodo, a resident. “The Correspondent Chapel of the NUJ once visited during their independent tour. The situation we complained about is still pending, as the government has done nothing to address the issue.”
Residents of Ruthmour Street, Edepie, Azikoro Town, Dimrose, Saptex off Fido Road, and Green Villa were also badly affected by the flash floods.
Read also: Flash flood: Lagosians narrate ugly experience
Pastor Ignatius, a resident of Ruthmour Street, said the Bayelsa State Government is too slow to react to the plight of the people. He noted that since January, residents had been clamouring for government action, but nothing concrete had been done to prevent flooding.
He criticised the Bayelsa State Flood Committee for being lackadaisical in tackling the perennial flooding in the state. He pointed out that the Bayelsa State Emergency Agency had also been slow to provide residents with adequate information to prepare for the 2024 flooding.
Meanwhile, the state government has appealed for calm, insisting that it has not abandoned the people.
The Commissioner for Environment, Ebi Ben Ololo, in a statement on behalf of the state government, expressed sadness over the flash floods that affected several parts of the state.
“I am deeply concerned about the recent flash floods that have affected several areas in our state. The heavy downpour has caused hardship and disruption for many of you, and I want you to know that we stand with you during this challenging time,” he said.
“Our Prosperity Government, led by Senator Douye Diri, is committed to addressing flood-related issues promptly and effectively.
“We are actively working on measures to mitigate the impact of floods and enhance resilience in vulnerable parts of the state. I have personally visited the affected areas to assess the situation firsthand and ensure that necessary actions are taken.
“Please stay safe, and rest assured that your well-being is our top priority. Together, we will overcome these challenges and build a more resilient Bayelsa State,” he added.