The Rivers State Government (RSG) has urged residents, particularly those living in flood-prone areas, to take urgent precautions following a recent flood warning issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
In a statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Sole Administrator, Hector Igbikiowubo, the government said it has received an advisory from the Federal Government (FG) naming Rivers among the high-risk states expected to experience flooding this year, alongside others and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In light of this, the government expressed full support for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which is currently deploying teams to Rivers and other vulnerable areas to educate the public on flood preparedness and safety measures.
Residents are advised to take necessary steps to protect their lives and property, including relocating from flood-prone communities to safer grounds where possible.
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The government also called on the public to cooperate with emergency response teams and follow official advice during this period.
Meanwhile, the state government has strongly warned against illegal land reclamation activities, stressing that such practices worsen environmental degradation and obstruct natural drainage systems, thereby increasing the risk of flooding.
“Unapproved reclamation of wetlands and other ecologically sensitive areas disrupts natural drainage systems, putting communities at greater risk during heavy rainfall,” the statement read.
Authorities have vowed to prosecute individuals or organisations found engaging in such illegal activities, in line with existing environmental protection laws.
Residents are further encouraged to clear blocked drainages, avoid dumping waste in water channels, and report any environmental violations to the relevant authorities.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to environmental safety and urged everyone to take the necessary actions to reduce the impact of potential flooding.
