Nnaya Eziyi, Umuahia
The Abia State commissioner for Environment, Barrister Tony Nwanmuo has said that the government is on guard against the predicted flooding in some states across the country latter in the year.
Nwanmuo stated this after monitoring the last monthly environmental sanitation exercise in state in Umuahia, the capital, appealing to the residents to join the ministry to prepare to control the flood.
He said part of the measures include embarking on extensive public enlightenment on the dangers of flooding especially in the urban areas, and desalting and proper channelling of the gutters.
Represented by the director , Pollution Control and Environmental Heath in the ministry, Mr. Ikechukwu Ukaegbu, he warned that the government will not tolerate any individuals or groups working against the task.
He advised those wishing to engage either cleaning or scooping of their gutters to also make adequate arrangements to cart the refuse away, saying leaving the refuse on the road will constitute more hazard.
The commissioner expressed worry that while the exercise was on some people especially the youths were either engaged in playing football or hawking, describing their attitude as very unbecoming.
Using the opportunity to commend those who participated in the two hours exercise, Nwanmuo cautioned those who failed to be mindful of their actions or be ready to face their consequences.
He warned the residents against dumping of refuse into the drainage and to use designated refuse dumps for them, “complain to the appropriate authorities where such facilities are not available.”
