Rivers Assembly seeks urgent action as flood sacks residents

The Rivers State House of Assembly is demanding urgent action to tackle flooding that has displaced families and left several roads impassable in parts of the state, according to a statement released by the Speaker's media aide. After inspecting flood-stricken communities in Port Harcourt City and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas, Speaker Martin Amaewhule made the call after lawmakers were urged to take swift action during a plenary motion.

Amaewhule, who visited these areas following distress calls from constituents, emphasized that the situation required immediate attention. The assembly observed that many families had been displaced, while roads were inaccessible due to the flooding. Some communities were inundated because of blocked canals and neglected drainage channels, while others were affected by natural water flow.

The speaker urged government agencies responsible for desilting drains to act quickly to prevent what he termed as avoidable flooding. During the plenary motion, Deputy Majority Leader Linda Somiari-Stewart highlighted concerns over residents losing property, livelihoods, and the presence of poisonous reptiles in submerged homes.

Lawmakers unanimously agreed to inspect these communities to assess the damage, and Amaewhule expressed hope that the state government would respond and take necessary measures to protect lives and property.