The Akwa Ibom State Government has begun emergency intervention in communities affected by Thursday’s torrential rainfall, assuring residents that immediate steps are being taken to drain flooded areas and restore normal life.
In a press statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, the government said Governor Umo Eno had directed construction companies working in the state to immediately move into flood-affected communities to evacuate excess storm water and ease the situation.
The statement said, “His Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, has directed some construction companies in the State to immediately mobilize to flood-affected areas to evacuate excess storm water, drain flooded communities, and restore normalcy following the torrential rainfall experienced on Thursday, July 9, 2026.”
The governor also ordered the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Ministry of Environment, and the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency to inspect affected locations, assess the level of damage and begin emergency response measures.
According to the statement, “Thursday’s heavy rainfall resulted in storm water flooding in several parts of Uyo, including Nkemba Street (Abak Road), Itu Road, Osongama Estate, and Shelter Afrique, as well as some areas in Abak Local Government Area.”
The government sympathised with residents whose homes and businesses were affected by the flooding and reassured them that help had already reached some of the affected communities.
It stated, “Government further assures residents that immediate intervention has commenced in some affected areas, while the implementation of lasting flood mitigation measures is also being considered.”
The statement also recalled that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had earlier warned of possible flooding during the current rainy season and urged residents to support government efforts by keeping drainage channels free from refuse and other materials that could block the flow of storm water.
It further warned members of the public against dumping waste into waterways and drainage channels, saying such actions contribute significantly to flooding.
The government added that it would not hesitate to remove any structure obstructing waterways or drainage lines.
According to the statement, “Government will remove all structures and properties obstructing waterways and drainage lines, regardless of ownership or the persons involved, in order to ensure the free flow of storm water and protect lives and property.”
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and appealed to residents to cooperate fully with emergency response agencies as efforts continue to restore normalcy in the affected areas.
