Uyo drainage saga: 7 months after, AKSG still adamant on future consequences

Uyo drainage saga: 7 months after, AKSG still adamant on future consequences

By Okoro Chima

Death struck in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State on 10th March, 2022 following the death of a woman who reportedly drowned in floodwater in a drainage along Abak Road, within Port Harcourt Street in Uyo.

It was gathered that during the first rain of the year, a heavy down pour flooded the area and the deceased woman who was said to be crossing to the other side of the road was unaware of a big gutter there. She fell into the gutter, and was swept away by the ravaging flood.

Sequel to the protest which was subsequently staged by Iboko Youths to Government House, Uyo; the Commissioner for Works visited the area but since then nothing has been done as to how to cover the gutters (slaps) and the water tunnel.

It must be noted that Akwa Ibom State is adjudged as one of the cleanest states in Nigera.
In a bid to maintain the tempo, the state government in 2020 during COVID-19 lockdown embarked on evacuation of drainages to ensure free flow of water in the gutters.

But since then, the project is yet to be completed.
seven months after the ugly incidence,one then wonders what is keeping the state government from fixing the slaps and covering the water tunnel. The masses are still watching !

Accordingly, as the rainy season winds down the people of the area want the government to evacuate the gutters so as to ensure free flow of waters during next year’s rainy season to avoid future occurrence.