Abia govt warns residents against possible flooding, reactivates emergency committees

Abia State government says its department of climate change and other relevant agencies have begun proactive measures to protect the state from flooding in 2026.

The State’s Commissioner for Environment, Mr Philemon Ogbonna, who made the plans known on Thursday, said the proactive action was in response to the predictions that Abia could experience abnormal rainfall this year.

He said the local emergency committees across the 17 local government areas of the state have been activated to coordinate responses and minimise the impact of possible flooding.

Ogbonna explained that public enlightenment campaigns have been intensified to ensure that residents are aware of the flood predictions and are adequately prepared for any eventuality.

He noted that the state is collaborating with relevant agencies and civil society organisations to develop emergency response plans, including the preparation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP, camps should the need arise.

Ogbonna urged Abians to remain vigilant and support government efforts by keeping drainages clean and avoiding activities that obstruct the free flow of storm water.

He warned against indiscriminate waste disposal, noting that blocked drainage channels are a major cause of flooding during heavy rainfall.

The commissioner further encouraged residents to sustain the culture of environmental cleanliness, particularly during the rainy season, emphasising that collective action remains essential to reducing the impact of climate change and safeguarding communities across the state.