Environmental Resource Manager Meshack Uyi has criticised the Rivers State Government for years of neglect and poor planning in managing flooding and supporting displaced persons, stating that the state has consistently failed to conduct proper flood assessments before, during, and after the rainy season.
Speaking on Nigeria Info’s Hard Facts, Uyi expressed concern over what he called a “meet and see” attitude from the government. According to him, authorities wait until flooding begins before reacting, rather than making plans early enough to protect lives and properties.
He explained that flooding, by itself, is a natural hazard, but it turns into a disaster because of mismanagement and lack of preparation by those in charge. Uyi also questioned the logic behind asking communities to relocate without offering alternative locations or shelter.
Uyi said the government has continued to ignore the need for structured planning, including taking detailed statistics of farmlands, farmers, and crops at risk in flood-prone areas. He emphasised that these details are necessary for setting up proper support systems.
He further stressed that over the years, no internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Rivers State have been properly equipped. Basic facilities such as clean water, food, healthcare, and security, he said, are consistently missing, leaving affected residents to fend for themselves.
See Video:
