By Ogenyi Ogenyi
Thousands of residents have been displaced after heavy rainfall triggered widespread flooding across Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, disrupting transport, businesses and schools.
The downpour, which began around 4 a.m. on Thursday, submerged homes, churches and major roads, leaving many communities inaccessible. Residents shared videos showing flooded neighbourhoods and damaged property. Some traders were unable to open their businesses, while many workers and schoolchildren remained stranded as floodwaters covered several streets.
Residents in some affected areas blamed poor drainage and inadequate infrastructure for the recurring flooding, while others pointed to the impact of climate change. Youths reportedly staged a protest along Ikot Ekpene Road, calling for a lasting solution to persistent flooding in the area.
A resident, Anthony Nyong, said flooding has become a recurring problem in parts of Uyo and urged the government to address drainage challenges. In response, the Akwa Ibom State Government directed construction firms to immediately clear drainage channels and evacuate floodwaters from affected communities.
Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umana, said Governor Umo Eno also directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Ministry of Environment, and the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency to assess the damage and implement emergency measures.The government expressed sympathy to affected residents and said immediate interventions had begun while longer-term flood mitigation measures were being considered.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had earlier warned of possible flooding in several states during the current rainy season.
