The Ondo State Government has initiated a large-scale operation to clear blocked waterways in Akure, the state capital, as well as in other communities across all 18 local government areas.
This proactive move aims to prevent and control flooding, which experts have warned could affect the state this year.
Professor Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, recently identified Ondo State as one of the regions at risk of flooding in 2025. In response, the state government has acted swiftly to mitigate this threat by deploying machinery and manpower to vulnerable areas.
On Friday, while overseeing the clearing work, Mr. Donald Fasua, Chairman of Akure South Local Government, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring Ondo remains flood-free this year. “We must commend the state government for this proactive measure and assure that no flood-prone area will be neglected,” Fasua stated.
He revealed that two excavators have been deployed to flood-prone zones, with operations already underway in Akure metropolis. Fasua also issued a stern warning to residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse into waterways, which obstructs water flow and exacerbates flooding risks. “We will take drastic action to address indiscriminate refuse dumping in waterways. It is a bad habit that must be seriously tackled and eradicated,” he warned.
Supporting these efforts, Mr. Elisah Ebijimi, consultant to the state government on waterway clearing, confirmed his team’s dedication to completing the task promptly. “The state government has mandated us to finish the job promptly, and we are fully committed to this,” Ebijimi said, underscoring the urgency of timely intervention in flood-prone areas.
This comprehensive waterway clearing initiative reflects Ondo State’s determination to safeguard its communities against the devastating effects of flooding in the coming rainy season.
