Flooding: Al-Makura warns against blockage of water channels

Gov. Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State has warned residents of the state against indiscriminate refuse disposal and blocking of water channels.

Al-Makura gave the warning on Monday while inspecting the ongoing construction of Angwan Hashimu road extension in Mararaba, Karu Local Government Area of the state.

A statement by Ahmed Tukur, Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity, said Al-Makura attributed the recent cases of flooding in parts of the country to indiscriminate refuse disposal and blocking of water ways.

He said that attitudinal change on the part of Nigerians would go a long way to avert a repeat of the 2012 devastation caused by flooding in the country.

Al-Makura said efforts at checking flooding was a collective responsibility, pointing out that government would need the collaboration of all citizens in various communities to achieve any meaningful result.

He said that community efforts aimed at clearing drains and canals of refuse and other impediments was crucial to mitigate the effect of flooding.

The governor regretted the recent cases of flood that claimed lives in some states while commiserating with the families of those who died.

“This administration is working to tackle erosion and avert flood disasters through the construction of canal and drains.

“Government earmarked N1.7 billion for construction of canal and drains in Lafia and environs,’’ he said.