The Akwa Ibom State Government has warned that it will remove houses, buildings and other structures obstructing waterways as part of measures to tackle flooding following Thursday’s torrential rainfall that inundated parts of Uyo and Abak Local Government Area.
The warning came as Governor Pastor Umo Eno directed construction companies to immediately move into flood-hit communities to evacuate storm water, drain affected areas and restore normal activities.
Communities affected by the flooding include Nkemba Street along Abak Road, Itu Road, Osongama Estate and Shelter Afrique in Uyo, as well as parts of Abak Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Thursday, 9th July 2026 by the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, the government announced that it would take firm action against any obstruction of drainage channels.
“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 also directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Ministry of Environment and the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency to inspect affected communities, assess the damage and implement emergency measures.
Residents were urged to play their part by keeping drainage channels around homes and business premises free of refuse and other blockages.
The government stressed that indiscriminate waste disposal remains a major cause of flooding and appealed for public cooperation.
“The Government urges members of the public to refrain from dumping refuse into waterways and drainage channels, as such practices obstruct the free flow of storm water and significantly contribute to flooding.”
The government expressed sympathy to residents affected by the flooding and assured them that emergency interventions had already begun, while longer-term flood mitigation measures are also being considered.
The statement added that the state remains committed to protecting lives and property and called on citizens to cooperate with emergency response agencies as efforts continue to restore normalcy.
Many homes, businesses and institutions are recounting huge losses. One of such is the Seventh Day Adventist Church on Nkemba Road, which posted a video showing all of its auditorium with furniture under water.
