NUJ warns against building on waterways in Ekiti, seeks immediate flood prevention measures

The Ekiti State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ has called on the State Government and residents to take immediate and coordinated measures to prevent flooding across the state.

This call followed the recent heavy rainfall that submerged roads and destroyed property in parts of Ado-Ekiti and other communities.

The union made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of its June Congress held on Wednesday at the Tai Oguntayo Hall, NUJ Press Centre, Oke Bareke, Ado-Ekiti.

The communiqué, signed by the Secretary of the council, Comrade Seun Ogunsakin, said the congress expressed concern over the increasing threat posed by flooding and stressed the need for proactive environmental management to avert further disasters.

According to the communiqué, residents have a critical role to play by refraining from indiscriminate disposal of refuse into drainage channels, a practice it described as one of the major causes of blocked waterways and urban flooding.

The union also urged the Ekiti State Government to intensify efforts at clearing blocked drains and opening up waterways to ensure the free flow of storm water during the rainy season.

While sympathising with residents who suffered losses during the recent downpour, the NUJ warned against the continued construction of buildings on waterways, describing the practice as dangerous to lives, property and the environment.

The communiqué reads; “Flood Prevention and Environmental Safety: With the recent heavy rains across the State, the Congress urges both government and citizens to take proactive steps to prevent flooding. Residents are advised to stop dumping refuse in drains.

“The State Government should also step up efforts to open up blocked waterways. While commiserating with those who lost property to the last downpour, the Union stresses that building on waterways must stop, as it endangers lives and damages the environment.

“Security: The Union calls on the government and security agencies to strengthen surveillance and take decisive action against criminal elements in the State. The Congress emphasizes that peace is the foundation for meaningful development.

“Moral Values in Schools: The Congress expresses deep concern over the growing moral decline among students. It tasks parents, school proprietors, government, and other education stakeholders to instill discipline and ensure pupils and students do not lose their moral compass.”