DESOPADEC Steps Up Flood Prevention Efforts in Sapele

The Delta State government have intensified flood control operations in Sapele Metropolis as part of efforts to reduce the risk of flooding during the upcoming rainy season. The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), working alongside the Ministry of Environment, has been clearing blocked drainages and removing waste to improve water flow in key areas of the city.

On Friday, heavy machinery was deployed along Okpe Road, one of Sapele’s busiest streets, to clear silt and debris from drainage channels. Similar activities were carried out on Lawrence Street and Major Bowen Road. The local government chairman, Chief Bright Abeke, led a task force to enforce the removal of illegal structures obstructing drainage systems.

Officials also focused on clearing one of the largest illegal refuse dumps in the Reclamation area, which had long been a challenge for local authorities. Waste was excavated and transported to designated disposal sites outside the city.

The initiative is part of a wider state government directive aimed at mitigating flood risk warnings by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET).