The Executive Chairman of Oron Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Okon Asukwo Enweme, has once again demonstrated proactive leadership by joining the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA), Prince Ikim, on an extensive inspection of flood-affected communities within the council area.
The inspection, conducted on Saturday, formed part of the state government’s ongoing assessment of communities impacted by recent heavy rainfall. The visit underscored the commitment of the administration of Governor Umo Eno to ensuring the safety and welfare of residents across Akwa Ibom State.
Receiving the AKSEPWMA Chairman at the council secretariat, Chief Enweme applauded Dr. Ikim for personally leading the inspection despite it being a weekend. He described the visit as a demonstration of responsible leadership and responsiveness to the concerns of the people.
Chief Enweme also reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to partnering with relevant state agencies to tackle environmental challenges, particularly flooding, while ensuring that residents continue to enjoy a safer and healthier environment.
Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Ikim explained that the tour became necessary following widespread reports and videos on social media highlighting the devastating effects of flooding in several parts of the state. He stressed that Governor Umo Eno’s administration remains people-focused and is determined to address environmental issues affecting communities.
The inspection team expressed concern over the poor quality of some drainage infrastructure executed by contractors. They observed that several drainage channels were either undersized or poorly constructed, making them incapable of accommodating heavy stormwater and thereby contributing to persistent flooding.
The team called on contractors responsible for the affected projects to return to their sites and carry out necessary remedial works in line with approved specifications. They also recommended the construction of wider drainage systems and reinforced concrete covers where necessary to improve water flow and prevent further flooding.
Among the locations inspected were Orman Esin Street, Skypoint by the Secretariat, Ukpong Street, Effiong Essang Street, Estate Road, College Road, Academy Road, Abestonic Link to Customs, Agric Lane, Mary Hanney, Isangedighi by Stadium Road, Lawrence Etim Street, Anwana Abia, Eyo Akan, Civic Centre, Stream Road, Bako Street, and the Oron Road corridor near Access Bank and Mt. Zion Lighthouse.
Political leaders and government officials who joined the exercise included the Vice Chairman of Oron Local Government, Princess Nse Owobiak; Council Secretary, Engr. Asuquo Asuquo; former Vice Chairman, Hon. Charles Bassey; Chapter Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Ulap Uwe Akan; Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Ulap Victor Joe; alongside other aides and political appointees.
Residents commended Chief Okon Asukwo Enweme for his hands-on leadership style and swift response to issues affecting the people. His active involvement in the inspection reflects an administration that places the welfare of citizens above all else and remains committed to working with the state government to deliver practical and lasting solutions to environmental challenges.
By Ndifreke Bassey
