...Nani, Jamani inspect flood hotspots as task force gets marching orders
By Ejememo Enoch Igho & Evelyn Obibi-Assay
In a bold move to mitigate the perennial flooding in Delta State's oil-producing communities, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, is set to embark on comprehensive flood control interventions in Sapele and its environs.
This was disclosed on Monday, July 21, 2025, when the Chairman of DESOPADEC, Hon. Barr. John Obukokwho Nani, and the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ejiro Jamani, conducted an on-site inspection of flood-ravaged areas across Sapele and Amukpe. The visit signals the commencement of a holistic response to the worsening flood situation in the region.
Speaking to DESOPADEC Media during the inspection, Hon. Nani revealed that the intervention was initiated on the directive of the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
“His Excellency has instructed us to urgently intervene in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment to bring relief to residents affected by flooding,” Nani said. “We’ve gone round several affected areas, and starting tomorrow, we will begin opening up blocked canals and drainages in Sapele and Amukpe.”
He noted that although flood control falls under the purview of the Ministry of Environment, DESOPADEC has consistently supported these efforts over the years within its mandate areas—thanks to the governor’s unwavering support.
“This is not new to us,” he stated. “We’ve been undertaking these interventions for years. What’s different now is the volume of water and the scale of damage. That is why desilting of major canals will commence immediately.”
Echoing his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ejiro Jamani, identified key flood-prone flashpoints, including Okrigbaga, Power Line, Shell Road, New Road Junction, Otakpo Bruno Street, Uton River by Army checkpoint, Orakpo Canal, Owumi Road Canal, Reclamation Dumpsite, and Ogodo Road Canal near Church of God Mission.
Jamani emphasised that beyond technical interventions, the Ministry has intensified public education campaigns on the dangers of obstructing water channels. He warned that anyone caught erecting illegal structures on waterways would face demolition and legal action.
“Some residents are intentionally building on water channels,” he said. “This is environmentally dangerous and directly causes flooding. The task force on demolition of illegal structures has been directed to take immediate action.”
Also present during the inspection was Sapele Local Government Chairman, Hon. Bright Abeke, who expressed deep concern over the activities of individuals and companies contributing to canal blockages through indiscriminate waste dumping and environmental neglect.
Abeke issued a stern warning: “This reckless behaviour must stop. Anyone caught polluting or blocking our drainage systems will face prosecution. We are serious about restoring the environmental integrity of Sapele Metropolis.”
The joint inspection marks a renewed effort by the Delta State Government to confront the environmental challenges affecting oil-producing communities—ensuring safer, cleaner, and flood-resilient living conditions for residents.
