The Delta government has embarked on mass demolition of “illegal structures” on the waterways in different parts of the state to allow the free flow of water during flooding.

The director-general of special duties, Frank Omare, disclosed this on Monday during an interactive session with journalists in Warri.

Mr Omare spoke at the site of the demolition of a storey building and a proposed church building attached to it at Ugboroke community, Uvwie LGA.

Mr Omare said the government would ensure that all the structures obstructing the waterways were demolished. He said the owners of such structures were given two months’ notice to remove them. The Delta official frowned upon their nonchalant attitude towards the government’s directive.

“One of the mandates giving to me is to destroy all illegal structures in the state, and this is just the beginning. We have given them over two months’ notice to remove their properties. We are constructing a massive drainage system in the state to connect all the drains,” explained Mr Omare. “So, we are removing all the structures hampering the flow of water. Those who have built on natural waterways should remove their buildings.”

Mr Omare added, “Those who do not have approval plans should remove their buildings. What is going on here is that this very building that we are demolishing does not even have approval. Whenever it rains, everywhere will be flooded. This demolition serves as a warning to others.”

The official urged people blackmailing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to understand that the demolition was necessary and not based on sentiments.

Mr Omare said more than 40 per cent of houses in Ugboroke had no septic tanks.

(NAN)