Vehicular movement came to a standstill on Wednesday evening along Old Lagos–Agbor Road in Boji-Boji Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, following several hours of heavy rainfall.
The torrential downpour led to severe flooding, trapping vehicles and sweeping away several motorcycles as commuters struggled to navigate the submerged road. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
In response to the incident, the Delta State Government expressed sympathy for those whose vehicles and motorcycles were damaged or lost in the flood. Officials also emphasized the need for collective action to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
During a press conference in Asaba on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, urged residents to adopt environmentally friendly practices to reduce the risks associated with flooding.
“Many of you witnessed the heavy rainfall across the state yesterday and the damage it caused, particularly in the Ika region where several vehicles and motorcycles were affected. While other areas also experienced rainfall, the impact was not as severe,” Aniagwu stated.
He noted that the state government has been proactive in implementing flood control measures, highlighting that Asaba, the state capital, experienced significant rainfall without similar disruptions.
“We have consistently prioritized flood control in our infrastructure projects. Most of the roads we construct include dual drainage systems, and in some cases, we have built storm drainages to manage excess water. This administration remains committed to that approach,” he added.
Expressing concern over the recurring issue, Aniagwu sympathized with those affected by the flood and reiterated the importance of maintaining a clean and functional drainage system.
*”There are large drainage systems on both sides of the road designed to handle heavy rainfall. However, one major challenge we face is the improper disposal of waste. Many people dump refuse into drainage channels, expecting the floodwaters to carry it away. Unfortunately, this obstructs the natural flow of water, reducing the effectiveness of the drainage system and worsening flood conditions,”* he explained.
Aniagwu emphasized that despite the billions of naira spent on constructing and maintaining drainage systems, human activities such as indiscriminate waste disposal continue to undermine their effectiveness. He urged residents to take responsibility for their environment and support government efforts to prevent future occurrences.