FLOODING DUE TO INDISCRIMINATE WASTE DISPOSAL;

 FLOODING DUE TO INDISCRIMINATE WASTE DISPOSAL; 

..... Why Residents Must Take Responsibility

Emmanuel Nicholas

2min reads

June 06 2024

Akwa Ibom State is known for being the cleanest State in Nigeria, largely due to the efforts of the government to maintain cleanliness in all ramifications. 

The Government of Governor Umo Eno made part of it first line charge in keeping the environment in the State very clean. 

The Government sweeps all the streets every day, clear drainage, cut grasses, run quarterly evacuation of surface and underground drainage systems. 

The Akwa Ibom State Government has made significant investments in acquiring waste disposal vehicles and large waste bins for residents to freely dispose of their waste. Meanwhile, in many other states in Nigeria, residents are required to pay for such services.

The State also has designated the last Saturday of each month as a sanitation day to allow residents to tidy up their surroundings. Despite strict movement restrictions in place, the majority of residents have chosen not to take advantage of this opportunity to clean their environment.

One of the critical issues facing Akwa Ibom State is the improper disposal of waste and the neglect of drainage systems by residents. 

Residents must recognize the importance of proper waste disposal and clearing of drainage to prevent flooding, But they constitute a Nuisance by dumping their waste into waterways. 

Having lived in Lagos for over fifteen years, I have never seen the state government clearing waste from the drainage systems., Instead, residents have to engage licensed sanitation agents to help them clear the drainage, dispose of their waste or to do both by themselves. 

In Akwa Ibom State, the government through the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency has established designated points where residents can deposit their waste,

And the agency then collated the waste to central disposal site for recycling and reclamation of the valley. 

 The residents do not take responsibility for cutting the grass outside their homes, They also leave this task to Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency. 

Regrettably, residents of Akwa Ibom tend to dispose of their waste in drainages and waterways, leading to flooding during the rainy season, causing property damage and loss of life. 

Ironically, these same individuals then point fingers at the government for not doing enough to prevent flooding in the state. 

A notable example was the recent flooding in a section of the Housing Estate extension in Uyo, the state capital.

 Upon assuming office as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2015, Deacon Udom Emmanuel encountered flooding in the area that tragically claimed the life of a young girl. 

At that time, the entire Estate lacked asphalt roads and drainage systems. 

As a conscientious leader, Governor Emmanuel took action by awarding contracts for the construction of 28 streets equipped with drainage on both sides, and it was completed and commissioned. 

From then such incidents never occurred. 

This type of calamity could be averted if residents took responsibility for properly disposing of their waste and maintaining clean drainage systems, instead of solely relying on the government for these duties.

Another critical element in ensuring a flood-free future for Akwa Ibom State is prudent urban planning.

 Residents should obtain proper approvals before constructing buildings to prevent encroachment on waterways and designated drainage areas.

I recall an incident where a man constructed a house that became a barrier that blocked waterways on one of street's exit from housing Extension into Mbak Road. It required the intervention of the Uyo Capital City authorities, who dismantled the structure and allows water to flow. 

Therefore, collaborating with government agencies on urban development projects will help prevent construction in flood-prone zones and ensure that structures are not erected over underground drainage systems.

Obstructions such as these buildings hinder the opening of underground drains when it is blocked, leading to blame being unfairly placed on the government for demolition actions to unblock the drains. 

To prevent flooding in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom State, and other cities, residents must make a concerted effort to take responsibility and commit to cleaning and clearing waterways.

 They should also work together with the government of Pastor Umo Bassey Eno to keep Akwa Ibom State clean, ensuring that the state maintains its reputation as the cleanest state in Nigeria and continues to win awards for cleanliness.

Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency have been a very proactive agency that have been ensuring Akwa Ibom State remain clean and very conducive for human habitation.

There is need for residents to assist the Agency in ensuring the job is done perfectly .