The Kwara State Government has launched a campaign to sensitise those living in the riverine areas of the state to avert further loss of lives and property to flooding.

The state’s Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Musa-Buge, led the sensitisation team to Gbaradogi village in the Patigi Local Government Area of the state on Friday.

The commissioner, while appealing to the people of the affected areas to relocate to safer places and avoid disaster, said the government was committed to public safety.

The commissioner said, “The current administration is deeply concerned about the impending flood and will therefore take proactive measures to ensure the safety of lives and property as well as avoid outbreak of communicable diseases. I urge those residing in riverine communities to heed to warnings, by relocating to higher grounds or the internally displaced persons camp provided by the state government. I am also against travelling by river during the rainy season, to prevent boat accidents.’’

The commissioner stressed on the importance of obtaining necessary approvals from relevant government agencies before embarking on any construction and to avoid building houses close to or on waterways.

“Residents should follow the government’s directives on evacuation as provided by the state’s Ministry of Environment and the State Emergency Management Agency. Also, the state government will continue to provide necessary relief and support for affected communities, while encouraging sustainable living practices,” she said.

The Village Head of Gbaradogi, Ndatsadu Muhammad, commended government’s initiatives, saying they would go a long way in preventing loss of lives and property in riverine areas.

Mr Muhammad, however, requested more relief materials to assist those affected, particularly in the provision of food and potable water.

(NAN)