The Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State has begun the clearing of blocked rivers, drainages, canals and gullies in areas within the council.

Goke Jatuwase, chairman, Ilaje LGA, told journalists on Monday that the exercise was imperative to check recurring flooding in the area.

On August 1, a downpour caused flooding in areas, including Okitipupa, Igbokoda and others, which destroyed several properties.

Mr Jatuwase appealed to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to help residents affected by the flooding, which had subjected them to untold hardship.

According to him, many residents still count their losses following the downpour, overflowing river banks, drainages, gullies and canals.

“So, we decided to take preventive measures against recurrence, and that is why we began the channelisation of blocked rivers, canals, drainages and gullies for easy passage of erosion.

“We have opened up the Ajere canal, as well as the canal at the back of Nigeria Navy Officer’s Mess, through to the back of the LG secretariat, to allow free flow of water into the Oluwa River, which has been channelled too.

“We have equally contacted the NDDC to come to the aid of our people so that the untold hardship occasioned by the flood can be curtailed and cushioned,” Mr Jatuwase said.

The council boss, however, urged residents to stop the habit of indiscriminate dumping of refuse and dirt in the gullies, drainages, canals and rivers, saying the resultant effect was the flooding, which had destroyed their properties.

He also said the council would henceforth take stringent measures and enforcement on improper refuse and waste disposal in the council area. 

(NAN)