The Kaduna State Government has called on residents to help mitigate flooding by refraining from constructing buildings on waterways and dumping refuse near streams and channels.
The government also stressed the importance of obtaining building permits from relevant agencies and keeping drainages clear to prevent flooding.
Mallam Sani Kila, Chief of Staff to the Kaduna State Governor, conveyed these messages during an assessment visit to flood-affected communities in Chikaji Ward, Sabon Gari Local Government Area, and Sabuwar Anguwa Magume in Zaria Local Government Area.
Mallam Kila expressed the Governor Uba Sani’s heartfelt concern for the affected communities and assured that the state government is committed to implementing both immediate and long-term solutions to address flooding.
“Investigation has revealed that many of the houses were built without permission from the relevant agencies, and this is illegal. If we are to continue with measures to curtail flooding, some structures will need to be removed as they obstruct water flow, which contributes to flooding.
“The Governor sympathizes with everyone affected and has established a committee to evacuate those impacted by the flood. The committee is also tasked with providing relief materials and temporary accommodation for the victims.
“Kaduna State has consistently taken proactive measures to combat flooding. I urge residents to cooperate with the state government by properly disposing of waste and avoiding construction along waterways and channels.
“Additionally, it is critical to stop dumping refuse into drains and refrain from erecting structures on waterways,” he added.
In Sabuwar Anguwa Magume, Mallam Kila voiced concern over the practice of scraping sand from the stream, which poses significant risks to the community.
“The situation is urgent and requires immediate action. If it rains, the consequences could be severe. While the government has a role, the local community must urgently address this issue to prevent further excavation of sand.
“The area is large, and the volume of water is considerable. The government will implement measures to resolve this problem once and for all,” he concluded.
