By Ovasa Ogaga,
In a bold move to address the issue of illegal structures obstructing water flow in Delta State, the house of Hon. Victor Egbo, the Commissioner representing the Isoko ethnic nation at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), has been slated for demolition.
Chief Frank Omare, Director of Special Duties to the state government and Chairman of the Task Force on the Removal of Illegal Structures and Recovery of Government Lands, made the revelation. The announcement came during the launch of a canal clearing exercise in Ughelli, aimed at preventing flooding by removing obstructions in the water channels.
Omare emphasized that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is determined to remove any barriers to the waterways, regardless of who owns the property. "No one will be spared in this exercise," he stated, highlighting that Egbo's house is just one of many structures to be demolished to restore proper water flow and prevent further property damage.
Addressing reporters, Chief Omare elaborated on the state’s zero-tolerance policy for illegal structures, warning that there would be no compromise. He urged residents not to bribe officials to spare their properties, as the government would not relent in its mission to protect the community from the dangers posed by blocked water channels.
Egbo, acknowledging the decision, expressed his support for the state's efforts. "I am fully aligned with the governor's MORE Agenda," he said. Egbo, whose three houses are affected by the demolition, stated that as a public servant, he must lead by example. He called upon other property owners to cooperate with the government, stressing that public interest should outweigh personal losses.
Omare underscored that the task force has been equipped with swamp buggies to remove the buildings obstructing water flow. He urged residents of Ughelli to cooperate with the authorities to ensure the success of the operation and minimize the impact of future floods.
Additionally, Omare took a firm stand against groups or individuals seeking to impede the exercise. He declared that the government would not negotiate with community leaders or youths obstructing the work. "We do not need permission to clear the waterways," he said, making it clear that attempts to halt the process would be met with strict enforcement.
Ughelli North Local Government Council Chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, confirmed that the cleanup was part of his ongoing initiative to maintain a clean and safe environment. He noted that several structures, including shops built over drainage systems, had contributed to the flooding problem, and their removal was necessary to restore normalcy.
The demolition of these illegal structures is part of a broader effort to address the flood risks that have plagued the region, particularly during the rainy season. Residents have long complained of rising water levels due to blocked drains and water channels. The government’s decision to clear these waterways is expected to bring much-needed relief.
In reaction to the government’s initiative, Mrs. Oghenero Kpeji, a resident of Ughelli, commended the administration for its proactive approach. However, she expressed concerns about the debris left behind after the demolition. Kpeji urged the government to ensure that all debris is properly disposed of to prevent potential health hazards.
As the cleanup exercise continues, the state government remains committed to safeguarding its citizens from the risks of flooding. The demolition of Hon. Egbo's properties, despite his high-ranking position, sends a strong message that the government is serious about enforcing its policies and prioritizing the safety of its people over individual interests.
The task force has promised that no one will be exempt from the exercise as they work to restore the integrity of the state’s water systems. As more illegal structures are identified and removed, Delta State hopes to reduce the flooding issues that have caused significant property damage in the past.
