The Akoko-Edo Local Government Council in Edo State has taken proactive measures to mitigate the risk of flooding in communities around the Ojirami Dam. Council Chairman Hon. Robert Olumole led an emergency inspection of the dam to assess the situation and determine immediate measures to protect lives and property. The council has ordered the partial opening of the dam to allow controlled water flow, under the supervision of engineers.
The decision to release water from the dam was necessitated by rising water levels and growing fears of flooding in surrounding communities. The dam's mechanical opening and closing mechanism had reportedly deteriorated due to lack of adequate servicing or lubrication, worsening the emergency situation. Engineers identified essential materials required to restore the smooth operation of the mechanism, which the council chairman assured would be considered.
The controlled release of water aims to reduce pressure on the facility and protect adjoining communities from possible flooding. Olumole commended officials for their prompt response and stressed the need for proactive measures to safeguard lives, property, and vulnerable communities. The council's swift intervention reflects its emerging emphasis on rapid response, infrastructure assessment, and protection of vulnerable communities.
The situation in Enwan, one of the host communities of the Ojirami Dam, has taken a more alarming dimension due to torrential rainfall and flooding. Residents are at serious risk, with the only access road linking the community to neighbouring villages reportedly on the verge of collapse. The bridge leading to Enwan is also under severe threat from incessant rainfall and years of inadequate maintenance.
Residents, including children and the elderly, are struggling to access neighbouring communities through flooded and muddy routes. Video footage from the area showed residents abandoning their wares and making frantic efforts to rescue their children during a recent heavy downpour. The Chief Press Secretary to the chairman, Comrade Agomini Kehinde, said the administration is prioritizing rapid response and infrastructure protection.
The development has heightened calls for urgent intervention to prevent the worsening flood situation from turning into a major humanitarian and infrastructure crisis. With the dam, access bridge, and surrounding communities facing simultaneous risks, there is a need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the crisis. The council's intervention is seen as a step in the right direction.
The Akoko-Edo Local Government Council's proactive measures have come as a relief to residents, who are hopeful that the situation will be brought under control. The council's emphasis on rapid response and infrastructure protection is expected to safeguard lives and property in the affected communities. Further updates on the situation are expected as the council continues to monitor and respond to the crisis.
Key points
- The Akoko-Edo Local Government Council has ordered the partial opening of the Ojirami Dam to prevent flooding in surrounding communities.
- The dam's mechanical opening and closing mechanism had deteriorated due to lack of maintenance, worsening the emergency situation.
- The controlled release of water aims to reduce pressure on the facility and protect adjoining communities from possible flooding.
