Flooding Hits Ekiti as Government Warns Residents Against Blocking Waterways

The Ekiti State Government has raised concern over flooding in parts of the state following heavy rainfall, urging residents to take precautions and avoid activities that could worsen the situation.

The government said recent heavy rainfall in Ado-Ekiti and other parts of the state has resulted in flooding, affecting properties, businesses and livelihoods.

The State Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, urged residents to remain vigilant and follow official safety warnings during periods of heavy rainfall.

Residents were specifically advised not to dump refuse into gutters, drainage channels, culverts and waterways, as blocked drainage systems can obstruct the free flow of rainwater and worsen flooding.

The government also warned residents against building on waterways, drainage setbacks and flood-prone areas. It urged communities to report blocked drains, rising water levels and other environmental hazards to the appropriate authorities.

Residents were further advised to avoid walking, riding motorcycles or driving through flooded roads, bridges and water channels, even when the water appears shallow.

The Ekiti Government said it has been carrying out measures including the dredging of waterways, desilting of drainage channels and removal of blockages as part of efforts to reduce the impact of flooding across the state.

The government appealed to residents to cooperate with the authorities by keeping their surroundings clean and taking flood warnings seriously.