Governor Eno Sympathises with Flood Victims, Urges Residents to Stop Blocking Drainages

Governor Eno Sympathises with Flood Victims, Urges Residents to Stop Blocking Drainages

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has sympathized with families and residents whose homes and businesses were affected by the flash floods that followed the torrential downpour of Thursday, July 9, 2026.

Speaking on the incident shortly on arrival at the Victor Attah International Airport from an official engagement outside the State, Governor Eno acknowledged government’s responsibility to respond to the disaster but stressed that residents also have a crucial role to play in preventing flooding by keeping drainage channels free of refuse and other obstructions.

“It is unfortunate that in our society, whenever anything happens, everybody says it is the government’s responsibility.

“That is okay—we are not going to run away from that responsibility. But this same flash flood has happened in Abuja, Lagos and several other parts of the country,” he said.

Governor Eno noted that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had earlier warned of heavy rainfall and possible flooding, adding that tackling the challenge requires a collective effort by government and the people.

“The responsibility lies between government and the people. We all have the responsibility to clean up our surroundings, remove refuse from waterways and unblock our drainage channels.”

The Governor recalled that during the last environmental sanitation exercise, residents were urged to remain in their neighbourhoods to clean their surroundings instead of expecting government to clear drains directly in front of their homes.

“Government should not come and clean the drains in front of people’s houses.

“We see people dumping refuse into drains and then waiting for government to come and clear them.

“When we were growing up, and even today, people came out during weekends to clean their drainage channels. These are the things we should continue to do.”

He explained that while government would continue to desilt major drainage channels and intervene where necessary, communities must also take ownership of their immediate environment.

“Where drains require major desilting, people should draw government’s attention and we will come in to do the work. All of us, including you, are government.

“Everyone must join hands to ensure our culverts and drainage channels are free-flowing so they do not become blocked.”

Governor Eno described the incident as a flash flood resulting from heavy rainfall, stressing that government could not control the weather but would continue to respond swiftly to emergencies.

“The rains have just started. Government is not responsible for the rain; it is a natural occurrence. All hands must be on deck.

“Please, let us stop blocking our drainage channels. We will continue to do our best, but this is an appeal to all of us because Akwa Ibom is not the only place affected.

“Flash floods have occurred in many parts of the country. When they happen, we can only pray while also doing our part to reduce their impact”, he added.