Otuoke Community Sends SOS to Governments Over Impending Flood

The community of Otuoke, hosting the Federal University, Otuoke, in Bayelsa State, has sent a Save-Our-Soul message to the Federal and Bayelsa State Governments due to the impending flood. The community was one of the worst hit during the 2022 flooding, which affected several houses, including those of former President Goodluck Jonathan. The community has identified canals, creeks, and blocked natural waterways that need to be cleared to prevent a repeat of the 2022 flood disaster.

Key Takeaways:

• The community of Otuoke has sent an SOS message to the Federal and Bayelsa State Governments due to the impending flood.
• The community was one of the worst hit during the 2022 flooding, which affected several houses, including those of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
• The community has identified canals, creeks, and blocked natural waterways that need to be cleared to prevent a repeat of the 2022 flood disaster.
• The community lacks the necessary equipment and manpower to clear the identified creeks and canals, hence their appeal for government intervention.
• The community has identified specific areas as possible flashpoints of the floods, including the Ebirimo, Ologakpo, Elabio, and Okiko canals, as well as the Elebele-Otuoke-Ogbia town creek.
• The clearing of the canals and creeks is crucial to mitigating the flooding in the community.

Statistics:

• 2012: The community suffered from ravaging floods, but quickly raised the alarm and received succour quickly.
• 2022: The community was amongst the worst hit by the floods in the State, with several houses affected, including those of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
• Number of houses affected during the 2022 flooding: Not specifically stated.
• Number of canals and creeks identified by the community as possible flashpoints of the floods: 5 (Ebirimo, Ologakpo, Elabio, Okiko, and Elebele-Otuoke-Ogbia town creek).
• Equipment and manpower required to clear the identified canals and creeks: Not specifically stated.

Sources:

• Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa (no date specified)
• Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairman, Mr. Okubowei John Godfrey, speaking on behalf of the Otuoke community.