Floods caused by heavy rains continued from Tuesday to Wednesday, submerging some neighbourhoods in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State.
Flash floods devastated areas such as Cemetery, Azikoro, Ekeki, Okaka, Swali, Kpansia, Amarata, and Ovom, causing widespread anxiety among inhabitants.
The rains also led to rising water levels in the nearby Epie Creek and River Nun, implying that this year’s flooding could be more severe.
The federal government has issued warnings about the dangers presented by rising water levels in several states.
The situation in Bayelsa, a flood-prone state six feet below sea level, is especially grim.
Governor Douye Diri earlier stated that his government was studying a comprehensive drainage plan for the state capital; however, this has yet to be executed.
Residents in Amarata and Ekeki have taken to utilising buckets and basins to keep water out of their homes, with some claiming property damage.
On Wednesday, environmentalist Alagoa Morris described his experience, noting that his home and businesses had been flooded and that his family is considering relocating due to the ongoing problem.
Morris advocated for the building of an effective drainage system in Yenagoa.
He said, “Even if other states don’t need it, we urgently require an effective drainage system in Yenagoa, with small drains flowing into larger ones.”
