The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council has called on the State Government and residents to take immediate and coordinated measures to prevent flooding across the state, following the recent heavy rainfall that submerged roads and destroyed property in parts of Ado-Ekiti and other communities.
The union made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of its June Congress held on Wednesday at the Tai Oguntayo Hall, NUJ Press Centre, Oke Bareke, Ado-Ekiti.
The communiqué, signed by the Secretary of the council, Comrade O’Seun Ogunsakin, said the congress expressed concern over the increasing threat posed by flooding and stressed the need for proactive environmental management to avert further disasters.
According to the communiqué, residents have a critical role to play by refraining from indiscriminate disposal of refuse into drainage channels, a practice it described as one of the major causes of blocked waterways and urban flooding.
The union also urged the Ekiti State Government to intensify efforts at clearing blocked drains and opening up waterways to ensure the free flow of stormwater during the rainy season.
While sympathising with residents who suffered losses during the recent downpour, the NUJ warned against the continued construction of buildings on waterways, describing the practice as dangerous to lives, property and the environment.
The communiqué reads, “Following wide-ranging deliberations on national, state, and union matters, the Congress, presided over by the Chairman, Comrade Kayode Babatuyi, resolved as follows:
“Gubernatorial Election and Call for Unity: The Congress congratulates Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his victory in the June 20 governorship election in Ekiti State. It urges the Governor to be magnanimous in victory, and calls on the opponents to set differences aside and work with Governor Oyebanji to build an Ekiti State all citizens can be proud of.
*Credibility of the Election: The Congress notes that the governorship election was free, fair, and credible, and that it truly reflected the will of the people of Ekiti State.
“Flood Prevention and Environmental Safety: With the recent heavy rains across the State, the Congress urges both government and citizens to take proactive steps to prevent flooding. Residents are advised to stop dumping refuse in drains. The State Government should also step up efforts to open up blocked waterways. While commiserating with those who lost property to the last downpour, the Union stresses that building on waterways must stop, as it endangers lives and damages the environment.
“Security: The Union calls on the government and security agencies to strengthen surveillance and take decisive action against criminal elements in the State. The Congress emphasizes that peace is the foundation for meaningful development.
“Moral Values in Schools: The Congress expresses deep concern over the growing moral decline among students. It tasks parents, school proprietors, government, and other education stakeholders to instill discipline and ensure pupils and students do not lose their moral compass”.