Residents of Awka-Etiti in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State are calling for urgent government intervention as severe flooding continues to wreak havoc on homes, farmlands, and public infrastructure following days of heavy rainfall.
The flooding, which has severely affected the IKB Junction axis and surrounding neighbourhoods, has submerged residential buildings, destroyed crops, and disrupted movement, leaving many families counting their losses as the rainy season intensifies.
Concerned by the worsening situation, the Chairman of Idemili South Local Government Area, Hon. Amaka Obi, drew the attention of the Anambra State Government to the recurring flood menace and appealed for immediate intervention to protect lives and property.
In response, the state government deployed the Director of Works, Engr. Harold Eze, to carry out an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas.
During the inspection, officials examined existing drainage infrastructure and evaluated the extent of damage caused by the flooding.
Speaking during the visit, Engr. Eze explained that the volume of runoff flowing from the IKB Junction area now exceeds the capacity of the existing drainage channels. He said the community requires wider and deeper drainage systems, as the current structures can no longer accommodate the heavy water flow experienced during intense rainfall.
Engr. Eze noted that major drainage construction projects are best executed during the dry season to ensure quality and durability but assured residents that the government would explore temporary measures to reduce the impact of flooding while comprehensive drainage projects are being planned.
Residents used the opportunity to highlight the devastating effects of the recurring floods, explaining that overflowing drains frequently inundate homes, farmlands, and other valuable property.
One of the affected residents, Mr. Emeka Efo, lamented that schoolchildren are often stranded after heavy rainfall, as floodwaters make roads impassable, forcing many pupils and students to remain at school until the water subsides.
While appreciating Hon. Amaka Obi for bringing their concerns to the attention of the state government, residents stressed that they need prompt action beyond inspections and assessments.
They expressed hope that the government’s intervention would result in lasting solutions before more lives and property are affected.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that
the assessment visit was attended by key stakeholders, including the President-General of Awka-Etiti, Chief Emeka Ezeoke.
