An evening downpour on Friday has left residents of Inenzu Estate Okpuno in Awka South Local Government Area stranded, as flooding submerged houses and damaged properties following weeks of heatwaves.
The heavy rainfall led to severe flooding, trapping many residents in their vehicles and confining others to their homes. The floodwater pulled down fences, submerged buildings, destroyed properties, and washed away street roads in the estate.
Mrs. Chika Okeke, a resident, recounted the devastation, stating that the flood caused significant damage to her property and those of her neighbors. She urged the state government to intervene, particularly concerning the ongoing road construction from Okpuno to Goodwill Junction.
Residents Mr. Chukwuebuka Umenwaobi and Mr. Umunachi Eze echoed the call for urgent government assistance, highlighting the impact on their children’s ability to attend school and the residents’ ability to conduct their daily business activities.
Another resident, Ify Uzokwe, emphasized the need for proper drainage systems to be constructed by developers to prevent future flooding.
At the premises of Reverend Father Arazu, Reverend Father Chike Oguejiofor criticized the quality of work done on the flood plain by the contractor handling the road project. He urged the government to inspect the site and hold the contractor accountable for the poor job that exacerbated the flood damage.
During an inspection of the area, the ABS news crew observed that many hotels and recreational centers had been channeling their wastewater onto the streets, contributing to the frequent flooding issues.
The residents of Inenzu Estate Okpuno are appealing for swift government intervention to address the flooding and prevent further property damage and disruption to their lives.