By Aniefiok Ekanem
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical flood control infrastructure following an inspection of the 6-kilometre IBB Drainage Project and the desilting of the Nkemba Drainage Channel.
The inspection team assessed the entire stretch of the IBB Drainage Project, from the State Secretariat axis to Ibesikpo, to evaluate the structural integrity of the drainage system and identify environmental concerns requiring urgent attention.
The assessment revealed that the drainage infrastructure remains structurally sound and is effectively performing its flood-control functions. Consequently, major maintenance works, including extensive desilting, are not immediately required and will be carried out during the dry season.
Speaking with journalists after the inspection, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Hon. Nsikak Ekong, confirmed that full compensation had been paid to all affected property owners before the commencement of the project. He warned that any form of encroachment on the government-acquired right-of-way would henceforth be treated as a criminal offence.
However, the inspection, uncovered widespread encroachment along the drainage corridor, with residents cultivating crops such as plantain, cassava, and maize within the government’s right-of-way. The team also observed the destruction of grasses and trees planted to stabilise the embankments, a development that exposes the drainage system to erosion and significantly increases the risk of structural failure.
The team further observed the indiscriminate dumping of refuse, weeds, and other debris into the drainage channels. Hon. Ekong noted that such practices could obstruct the free flow of water, compromise the effectiveness of the drainage system, and expose no fewer than 18 surrounding communities to the risk of flooding.
The Commissioner appealed to village heads, community leaders, youth leaders, and other stakeholders to sensitise residents on the need to protect the drainage corridor and desist from all forms of encroachment, farming, and indiscriminate waste disposal. He stressed that preserving the integrity of the drainage infrastructure is essential to safeguarding lives and property while sustaining the state’s flood mitigation efforts.
He reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and called on all residents to support ongoing efforts to protect public infrastructure and maintain a clean, safe, and flood-free environment for the benefit of present and future generations.
