Rivers Assembly seeks urgent action as flood sacks residents

The Rivers State House of Assembly is urgently calling for action to tackle the flooding that has displaced families and blocked roads in several parts of the region. Speaker Martin Amaewhule led a group of lawmakers to inspect communities in Port Harcourt City and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas following a motion brought forward by Deputy Majority Leader Linda Somiari-Stewart.

The lawmakers witnessed firsthand the extent of the flooding and its impact on residents, with many families displaced and roads rendered impassable due to the rising waters. Amaewhule emphasized that the situation requires immediate attention, noting that the flooding is partly caused by blocked canals and neglected drainage systems, as well as natural water flow.

He urged government agencies responsible for maintaining drains to take swift action to prevent what he called "avoidable flooding." Additionally, the Assembly expressed concern over the discovery of poisonous reptiles in some homes submerged by floodwaters, prompting lawmakers to inspect the affected areas. Following their inspection, the lawmakers unanimously voted to visit more flood-affected communities in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor to assess the damage and listen to residents' experiences.