DLA Governorship Candidate Decries Flooding In Rivers

Governorship candidate of the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) in Rivers State, Warigbani Ezekiel, has expressed concern that 66 years after Nigeria gained independence, Rivers State, despite its enormous natural resources, is still suffering the devastating impact of recurrent flooding.

Ezekiel raised the concern in his Independence Day message, noting that recent floods had displaced families, submerged farmlands, destroyed businesses and disrupted livelihoods across several communities in the state.

He listed Ahoada West, Abua/Odual, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Tai, Oyigbo, Andoni, Obio/Akpor and parts of Port Harcourt among areas affected by the flooding.

The DLA candidate said the situation raised questions about the ability of the government to protect citizens from disasters that could be anticipated and better managed.

According to him, the flooding should go beyond seasonal relief efforts, calling for a comprehensive flood-management strategy for the state.

He proposed the establishment of a permanent Rivers State Flood Management Agency with early warning systems across the 23 local government areas, as well as the dredging of major rivers and clearing of blocked canals and waterways.

Ezekiel also called on the Federal Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Rivers State Government to immediately provide relief materials, medical supplies and temporary shelters to victims of the current flooding.

He said Nigeria’s Independence anniversary should be an occasion to reflect on whether the government was adequately meeting the needs of its citizens, stressing that independence must translate into improved security, infrastructure and quality of life.

On the political environment, Ezekiel disclosed that he had received an anonymous telephone call warning him to stop campaigning and making public speeches in the state.

He said his legal team had been directed to formally report the matter to the Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services.

He further alleged that political meetings had been disrupted, billboards destroyed and opposition members intimidated in parts of the state, urging security agencies to investigate the incidents.

He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure a level playing field for all political parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

Warigbani Ezekiel said his proposed administration, under the theme “A Fresh Page,” would prioritise flood management, security and the protection of political freedoms.

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