Flood Alert:Ocha Brigade Warns Drainage Dumpers in Anambra

Ocha Brigade Logo

By Polycarp Ifeanyi, Onitsha

The Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (Ocha Brigade) has issued a stern warning to residents of Anambra State, particularly those in Onitsha, to desist from indiscriminate dumping of waste in drainage channels.

The agency emphasized that dumping waste into gutters and water channels leads to blockage of drainage systems, which contributes significantly to flooding and the consequent loss of lives and destruction of property during the rainy season.

Speaking on behalf of the agency, Mr. Ejike Odife, one of the unit coordinators in Onitsha, reminded the public that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted heavy flooding this year. He added that the Anambra State Ministry of Environment has also repeatedly sounded the alarm to ensure residents are adequately prepared and take proactive measures.

During a media tour of Upper Iweka, Odife expressed dismay over the continued littering of the environment and drainage channels with waste materials. According to him, items such as condemned cartons, sachet water nylon bags, used plastic bottles, and waste papers are commonly found clogging water channels.

He pointed fingers at unregulated street traders who, according to him, often operate directly atop drainage systems and are notorious for disposing of waste recklessly after daily business activities.

“It is a serious environmental concern that traders continue to dump waste into gutters,”

“These waste materials scattered around eventually block the drainage. The government spends enormous amounts monthly on evacuating these wastes and de-silting blocked drains.”Odife lamented.

Odife urged the general public,especially visitors and residents of the Onitsha metropolis to utilize the mobile waste bins strategically provided by Ocha Brigade in various locations, in order to comply with environmental regulations and avoid prosecution.

In a special remark, he commended the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, for his visionary leadership and the signing of the Ocha Brigade Agency into law. Odife described the governor as a “God-sent leader,” praying for continued wisdom and good health for him.

He also lauded the Managing Director of the Ocha Brigade, Chief Celestine Anere, for his outstanding leadership, ongoing support, and effective coordination of the agency’s operations