The Ondo State Government has launched a large-scale operation to clear blocked waterways in Akure and across the state’s 18 local government areas to mitigate the risk of flooding.
This initiative follows a recent warning by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, who listed Ondo among states likely to experience severe flooding this year.
During an inspection on Friday, Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Donald Fasua, said the effort aims to keep the state flood-free throughout the rainy season.
He confirmed that two excavators have been deployed to flood-prone areas of Akure to clear clogged channels.
Fasua also warned residents against dumping refuse into waterways, stressing that the habit contributes significantly to flooding.
“We will take firm action against those who continue this practice. It’s a serious issue that must be addressed,” he said.
Elisah Ebijimi, the consultant overseeing the project, assured the public that work would be completed on schedule.
He emphasized that the state government had given clear directives to
ensure timely clearance of waterways in Akure and other vulnerable communities.
“We are fully committed to meeting the timeline set by the government to ensure residents are protected from flooding,” Ebijimi stated.