Agbor Residents Raise Alarm As Erosion, Flooding Force Families From Homes
Residents Appeal for Urgent Government Action as Erosion Worsens
RESIDENTS of Yahweh Street, behind the Ayo Ben area in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, have appealed to the Delta State Government and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene in the worsening erosion and flooding threatening lives, homes and public infrastructure in their community.
The residents said the persistent environmental challenge has rendered sections of the neighbourhood unsafe, forcing several families to abandon their homes while others continue to live under the constant fear of building collapse.
Community Blames Road Construction for Escalating Flooding
According to residents, Yahweh Street lies within a naturally low-lying area that has experienced seasonal flooding over the years. However, they alleged that the construction of Ayo Ben Street, the major access road serving the community, significantly altered the natural drainage pattern.
They claimed that stormwater, which previously flowed through different channels, is now diverted into Yahweh Street, leading to severe flooding and accelerated erosion during every rainy season.
Residents said the situation has deteriorated steadily, with floodwaters carving out deep gullies and sinkholes that continue to expand after each rainfall.
Homes, Roads and Public Infrastructure Under Threat
Community members disclosed that the advancing erosion has destroyed sections of roads, damaged drainage channels, perimeter fences and other public infrastructure, while several residential buildings have developed structural defects.
They noted that many landlords and long-term residents have relocated after their homes became unsafe, while numerous tenants have vacated the area due to concerns over possible building collapse.
The residents added that the expanding gullies now pose serious dangers to motorists and pedestrians, warning that continued inaction could result in further destruction of property and possible loss of lives.
Call for Lasting Flood Control Measures
The residents appealed to the Delta State Government, the Ika South Local Government Council, the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Dr. Benjamin Ikenchuku, Keagborekuzi I, CON, as well as environmental and emergency management agencies, to urgently assess the affected area.
They called for the construction of effective drainage systems, erosion control structures and rehabilitation of damaged roads, saying such interventions would protect lives, preserve property and restore confidence among residents.
With the rainy season intensifying across Delta State, the community expressed hope that prompt government intervention would prevent the environmental challenge from developing into a wider humanitarian crisis.
