According to officials, last week’s flooding is as a result of the delay in rainfall which caused a long duration of torrential downpour in major cities.
Minister of Water Resources Suleiman Adamu, who gave an update yesterday, said
“Summary of the alert is that approximately thirty (30) states and over one hundred (100) LGAs are categorised as high flood risk areas and therefore could expect flooding.
“The rains did not start early this year, thereby possibly causing long duration torrential downpour and causing unexpected urban/flash floods in areas with non-existing or inadequate drainage system in the country.
“The flowof surface water are being monitored by NIHSA while alerts will continue to be issued. Also, sensitisation of the entire nation by visiting the grassroots will soon be embarked upon.
“Urban/flash floods (i.e overflow due to sustained rainfall) in the urban cities or semi urban areas can be reduced with effective and adequate drainage systems. People must not use this facility as refuse bins which will block and render the facility useless with the probability of flooding heightened when it rains.
“People in the riverine areas must not erect residential structures on the flood plains as these areas are an extension of the river space. Unfortunately, people have refused to yield to advice.”
Yesterday, the Federal Government approved N1.6 billion to compensate victims of floods that ravaged 16 states.
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