Expert Calls for New Law to Address Flooding Issues in Ekiti State

A water resources management expert, Michael Ale, has called for a new law to help tackle the ongoing flooding issues in Ekiti State, Nigeria. He made this statement in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, following recent floods that caused loss of life and damage to property.

Ale, who leads the Global Development Initiative, emphasized the need for a stronger system to enforce rules and punish those who violate them. He believes that without effective institutions, the state cannot properly manage its flood risks.

He urged the Ekiti State House of Assembly to pass a Flood Resilience and Urban Planning Enforcement Law. This law would focus on flood prevention and ensure that environmental rules are followed. Ale pointed out that flooding in Ado Ekiti is predictable, citing factors like building on waterways and blocked drains as major contributors.

Ale also recommended creating a waste management authority to penalize illegal dumping in drains and suggested establishing an emergency management body with a reliable early warning system for floods. He noted that the state has a 30-year development plan that includes flood control and sustainable urbanization, but there is a lack of monitoring and enforcement.

He proposed that the law should require annual dredging of local rivers before the rainy season and establish no-build zones near waterways. Ale suggested that the state government could follow the example of Oyo State, which sought help from the World Bank after severe flooding.

Additionally, Ale warned residents to avoid crossing floodwaters during heavy rains to prevent accidents. He advised patience until the water recedes before attempting to move through flooded areas.