Ekiti govt begins desiltation of drainages in three flood-prone LGs

The Ekiti State Government has commenced desiltation of drainages in Ado, Ikere and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas of the state with a pledge that it will spare no efforts towards ensuring that every part of the state is safe from flooding.

Speaking at the flag off of the exercise in Ado-Ekiti, the State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe expressed gratitude to the State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji for showing strong commitment to protecting lives and properties of Ekiti people and promoting shared prosperity.

Aluko reiterated that the State Government has expended more than five hundred million naira to control flooding and erosion, through dredging and desiltation projects across the state in the last few months.

The Commissioner stressed that the desiltation embarked on by the state government covers over 22,903 meters of drains, culverts, and access slabs which have been identified for cleaning and maintenance in 45 streets/quarters/communities in Ado, Ikere, lyin, Awo, Eyio, Esure, Iworoko, Are, and Afao townships.

She hinted that due to the present administration’s investment in flood and erosion control, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and National Emergency Management Agency reported that from January to July 2024, Ekiti State was not expected to experience flash flooding.

Aluko appealed to the residents of the state to cooperate with the Government to protect the environment and aim for a flood-free year in 2024 and beyond.

“Following the State Government’s fair policy to bring democracy’s benefits, good health, and better lives to all areas, I assure you that dredging and desiltation projects will extend to other flood-prone local governments within the next two years,” she said.

Urging the residents to adopt the culture of keeping the environment clean by not dumping waste in drains, culverts, rivers, or unapproved locations within the State, Aluko advised residents to use the dino bins provided in strategic locations to ensure the administration’s investment in waste management is effective.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment, highlighting the critical roles that every individual plays in ensuring the community remains safe, hygienic and conducive to healthy living.

“We must all take responsibility for our surroundings, with proper disposal of waste, maintaining our homes and public spaces and supporting local environmental initiatives,” Olatunbosun said.

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