Flooding: Bayelsa Govt allays fear over NIMET prediction ……releases N500m

04/07/2013
Flooding: Bayelsa Govt allays fear over NIMET prediction ……releases N500m 

The Bayelsa State Government has allayed the fears of the people of the state over the forecast of the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, (NIMET) of heavy rainfall and attendant flooding in some states of the country including Bayelsa, submitting that proactive measures have been taken to reduce the magnitude of 2012 flooding. 

The State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson who is billed to proceed on his two week annual vacation stated, ‘aside the release of N500m, his administration has put in place other measures aimed at cushioning the effects of the flood waters as well as reducing its gravity. The NIMET predicted that this year’s flooding will reach its peak in August and September, the governor assured the people that they do not have any cause to entertain any fears. 

Hon. Dickson disclosed that three committees-Post Flood Management Committee, Infrastructure and Inter-Governmental Flood and Relief Committee have been put in place to work out modalities at preventing its recurrence. The governor added that work has commenced on the opening up of the water courses, construction of drainages and dykes in and around the state capital, while some structures are being elevated.

Making this known at the presentation of N500 million cheque to the members of the Inter Governmental Flood and Relief and Committee at the Banquet Hall, Yenagoa headed by the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, Governor Dickson charged them to liaise with other organs of the state towards harmonizing response efforts as well as work closely with the communities towards the establishment of fifty relief camps in the state.

 He has therefore called on the people to cooperate with members of the committees to enable them succeed in their assignment. Responding, chairman of the Inter-Governmental Flood and Relief Committee, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, (Rtd) assured the Governor of the committee’s preparedness to manage the anticipated flood.   

 Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State