From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
There is palpable fear in various parts of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital and other parts of the state over reports of a possible flooding in the state this year.
In recent years, Bayelsa residents have had to grapple with flooding that has, over the years, claimed lives while multi-million-naira infrastructural facilities have been destroyed.
In Yenagoa metropolis, residents have raised alarm that the neglect of the Epie Creek would be another undoing that would make life unbearable for the people.
Some concerned residents along the Igbogene area of the Epie Creek, who expressed worries over government’s alleged nonchalant attitude that has caused serious hardship to residents, noted that the only solution to tame perennial flooding around Epie Creek is to dig it deep through dredging.
Pastor Tariebi Blessed Kalakai, a resident who spoke on the issue noted that government should dig up the creek to check the yearly flooding that has affected most houses in the area.
Another resident, Dorgu Joseph explained that the major problem of flooding in Bayelsa state is the Epie Creek, which connects all the communities
“If the government can dredge it above flood level, it will help. But most times, the government goes on crash programme when floods come. The real solution to this creek is to pile it from Igbogene to Government House. Government should partner with NDDC and do it in phases, so people will be happy. Government is a continuum. If this government can’t complete it, another will continue with it,” Kalakai said.
Mrs Kate Wilson, also a resident in the flood-prone part of Yenagoa, blamed the government for lack of a blueprint to tackle the perennial flooding in the state.
Also speaking, Mr David Patrick Igidi accused the government of causing the sufferings of residents around the Epie Canal.
“The neglect of the Epie Creek is caused by the government. No official bridge connecting communities by the canal. Government should open up this creek. Every day, during the flooding period we pay lots of money to get to our houses, snakes are all around our houses during floods, armed robbers also have a field day here while corpses flow from a nearby mortuary to our houses,” he said.
The Director General, Bayelsa State Flood and Erosion Control Agency, Chief Omuso Wilson disclosed that the lack of funds is the major factor militating against the agency’s activities.
According to him the agency would swing into action if the required funds are released to tackle the flooding issue.
“Funds haven’t been released. Once funds are released, we will go into action. Investigations revealed that the government would soon launch a sensitization programme to prepare for the impending flooding and allay their fears. Part of the sensitization is to make people prepare to create a flood emergency kit; move valuable items to safety; have evacuation plans and prepare for life after the flood,” he said.”