Bayelsa: Navy warns against dumping of refuse in canals

The Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH (NNS) has urged residents of Akenpai and Agudama Communities in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa to stop dumping refuse in canals and drainage systems in the state.

Capt. Mohammed Kolo, the Executive Officer NNS SOROH/Coordinator Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH Disaster Relief Programme, handed down the warning on Thursday in Yenegoa during the clearing of blocked canals and drainages for easy flow of water.

According to him, the navy is working with the State Waste Management Agency, the Government, Fire Service, Flood Erosion Committee, among others in clearing the wastes.

“We are here today to clear the canal between Akenpai and Agudama– a major waterway; as you can see behind, it is blocked; filled with liters and urban waste.

“This is one of the sources of urban flood if not cleared; so, that is why we are here; to make sure that they keep the waterway free and it is part of keeping the environment clean.

“We are ready to tackle flooding whenever it comes; our teams are on ground and other sisters agencies are equally here to support.

“Because of serial warning by NIMET and the Federal Ministry of Environment on impending flooding, Bayelsa is one of the states that will likely be affected by flood this year.

“Based on this warning and in line with our non-kinetic operations and our corporate social responsibility, the commander NNS SOROH started this work,” he said.

He said dumping of refuse in canals was part of the things causing flooding in the environment.

Kolo urged the residents take care of the environment by clearing refuse and shun building houses close to canal or drainages.

Mr Prince Famvie, a resident of Agudama community, commended the Nigerian Navy for assisting them in clearing the canal for free flow of water.

He appealed to sister agencies to emulate the Nigerian Navy in its efforts to create a better environment and society at large. (NAN)