Dam overflow floods Edo community, killing poultry and disrupting daily life
Flooding caused by the overflow of the Ojirami dam has damaged homes, businesses and roads in Enwan, Edo State, residents said. An oil mill was destroyed, 1,400 poultry birds were reportedly killed and students and farmers were unable to reach schools and farms. Residents are urging authorities to act.
Heavy flooding caused by the overflow of the Ojirami dam has disrupted life in Enwan Community, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, residents said. The flooding reportedly destroyed an oil mill, damaged a poultry farm and covered major roads with water and erosion. Houses and business premises were also affected after rain began at about 6am, according to residents quoted by Punch.
Monday John, who owns the poultry farm, said the flood killed 1,400 birds and destroyed his livelihood. He called on the government to engage the water board over the timing of water releases from the dam. Another resident, Chief John Omaze, said floodwater entered his home and destroyed property and his palm-oil mill.
He added that children could not attend school and that farmers were prevented from going to their farms. A resident identified as Ehis said people feared the consequences of a possible dam collapse. He urged the state government to take immediate measures, warning that communities could be submerged if the structure failed.
The source material does not include a response from the Edo State Government, the water board or the dam’s operators. It also does not state the extent of the damage beyond the losses reported by residents. The flooding nevertheless left businesses closed and movement restricted in the community.
This independently written report is based on information supplied by the named publisher. Vertrix News has not independently verified the source report.