By Samuel Adeola
The Edo State Government has dispatched a team of experts to Rivers and Akwa Ibom States to study their flood control strategies, particularly those implemented during the administrations of former governors Nyesom Wike and Godswill Akpabio.
This move follows a series of recent heavy downpours that caused severe flooding across Benin City.
Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, said the aim is to “learn from working models” and adopt effective solutions that have produced results in other flood-prone states.
He noted that both Rivers and Akwa Ibom are now regarded as benchmarks for effective flood management in Nigeria. With the rainy season approaching its peak, the timing of the visit is considered strategic.
The team will assess vulnerable areas in Benin City and beyond, inspecting the terrain, drainage systems, and identifying key erosion flashpoints.
Upon completion of the study, a comprehensive report and set of recommendations will be submitted to the governor for implementation.
The government also announced that residential and commercial structures built along waterways, particularly in the GRA areas of Benin will be demolished to pave the way for proper drainage infrastructure. Property owners with valid documentation will be compensated, while others will be relocated.
Governor Okpebholo’s flood control initiative is expected to commence fully after the rainy season and will be executed promptly.
“This project will not follow the path of past interventions marred by mismanagement, poor execution, and fund diversion under the guise of erosion control,” Itua stated. “It will be comprehensive, transparent, and aimed at delivering a permanent solution.”
He added: “The era of seasonal flooding, which paralyses communities and threatens livelihoods in Edo, is coming to an end. The people of Edo can look forward to a new era marked by proactive leadership and responsive governance.”
