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The Delta State Government has taken a strong stance against one of its own commissioners, Victor Egbo, for constructing buildings on waterways.

The government has marked three of Egbo’s houses for demolition, citing obstruction of water flow as the reason.

The announcement was made by Chief Frank Omare, Chairman of the Task Force on Removal of Illegal Structures and Recovery of Government Lands, during a canal clearing exercise launch in Ughelli.

The exercise aims to prevent flooding by clearing obstructions in water channels.

Omare emphasised that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is committed to removing any barriers to waterways, regardless of ownership.

This move demonstrates the government’s determination to enforce environmental regulations and protect the state’s infrastructure.

Egbo, the commissioner representing the Isoko ethnic nation at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, has been singled out for building illegal structures that impede water flow.

“No one will be spared in this exercise. Egbo’s house is just one of many structures to be demolished to restore proper water flow and prevent further property damage,” Omare said.

He elaborated on the state’s zero-tolerance policy for illegal structures, warning that there would be no compromise.

He urged residents not to bribe officials to spare their properties, as the government would not relent in its mission to protect the community from the dangers posed by blocked water channels.

Omare underscored that the task force has been equipped with swamp buggies to remove the buildings obstructing water flow.

He urged residents of Ughelli to cooperate with the authorities to ensure the success of the operation and minimize the impact of future floods.

Additionally, Omare took a firm stand against groups or individuals seeking to impede the exercise.

He declared that the government would not negotiate with community leaders or youths obstructing the work.

“We do not need permission to clear the waterways,” he said, making it clear that attempts to halt the process would be met with strict enforcement.

Ughelli North Local Government Council Chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, confirmed that the cleanup was part of his ongoing initiative to maintain a clean and safe environment.

He noted that several structures, including shops built over drainage systems, had contributed to the flooding problem, and their removal was necessary to restore normalcy.

The demolition of these illegal structures is part of a broader effort to address the flood risks that have plagued the region, particularly during the rainy season.

Egbo, acknowledging the decision, expressed his support for the state’s efforts.

“I am fully aligned with the governor’s MORE Agenda,” he said. Egbo, whose three houses are affected by the demolition, stated that as a public servant, he must lead by example. He called upon other property owners to cooperate with the government, stressing that the public interest should outweigh personal losses. (Sunday Tribune)

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