The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the government to make maintaining dams and drainage infrastructure a top priority to prevent future flood disasters like the recent devastating one in Mokwa, Niger State.
In a statement released on Friday by Benson Upah, Head of Information and Public Affairs, given to Persecondnews in Abuja, the NLC extended its deepest condolences to the victims of the floods, which tragically claimed over 150 lives and displaced thousands.
Audu T. Amba, the NLC Acting President, emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging the government to implement proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies from occurring again.
“The government must prioritize the maintenance of dams and drainage infrastructure to prevent future floods,” Amba said.
The NLC pointed out that poor drainage infrastructure and poor maintenance of dams were likely causes of the Mokwa flood disasters.
The NLC demanded that the government should conduct periodic structural audits and maintenance of existing dams to prevent future disasters.
The Congress also called for the construction of catchment dams near big dams to mitigate the impact of flooding.
“We demand that in the future, robust steps be taken to ensure that such a disaster is prevented or mitigated.”
The NLC also reiterated the need for the government to improve drainage infrastructure in vulnerable communities.
“The predictability of flooding in Nigeria highlights the need for proactive measures to prevent future disasters.”
The acting NLC president commended the relatively swift response from both the Federal and Niger State Governments, acknowledging their efforts in offering condolences and providing relief materials to the victims of the Mokwa floods.
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