Residents of flood prone areas warned to relocate

[The InfoStrides]

The Government of Edo State has warned that residents in low lands, river banks and other flood-prone areas should relocate to higher grounds as preventive measures for an impending flood disaster of last year's magnitude.   In a statement released on behalf of the State Government, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Peter Okhiria advised residents to avoid indiscriminate dumping of waste that ends up blocking the drains. He quoted the Nigerian Metrological Agency (NIMET) as having predicted heavy rainfall in the year and the likelihood of flooding in many States.   He warned the people of Edo State not to underestimate the power of weather any more; saying Edo has consistently recorded an increase in rainfall. "We must therefore, take every preventive measure to avert the repeat of the disaster of 2012," he averred.   According to the statement, indiscriminate waste disposal habits block the drains and provide grounds for the breeding of mosquitoes, flies and other disease carriers that may cause high prevalence of malaria, yellow fever, laser fever and cholera. Residents were also advised to desist from keeping drains in front of their houses, rather should remove the sand around them and take careful look at the binding roofs to ensure that they are firm.   Secretary to the Edo State Government also called on the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to urgently review their distribution facilities within the State to ensure that they are strong enough to withstand the expected stormy weather in 2013 to avoid deaths that could relate to electrocution cases.   While assuring the people of Edo State that everything was being done to avert a repeat of the ugly incident of last year, the government commiserated with residents in the State capital and other places who lost their valuables in the heavy rainfall of Monday September 23, 2013.  

Source: Residents of flood prone areas warned to relocate

[Shola Sholaz]

It's best for them to take the step of relocating on time before things get out of hand. They should on time!