As part of an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected communities of Ugbokodo, Jeddo, and Ughoton following the unfortunate incident, state commissioner for environment Ejiro Jamani warned residents of the state against indiscriminate tree felling in the wake of Tuesday’s devastating windstorm, heavy rainfall, and hailstones in the state’s Okpe Local Government Area. He also expressed the state governor, Sheriff Oborevwori,’s deepest sympathies to the families. Strong winds and torrential rains in the impacted communities of Ugbokodo, Jeddo, and Ughoton caused millions of naira worth of property damage. James Augoye, a lawmaker representing Okpe Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Isaiah Isiowa, the chairman of the Okpe Local Government Area, representatives from the State Emergency Management Agency, the Ministry of Education, and other pertinent stakeholders were on the commissioner’s entourage during the visit.
The commissioner told reporters at the conclusion of the tour that the goal was to determine the extent of the damage.
He stated that the Ughoton Health Center, Ometan Primary School, Ughoton Secondary School, Ugbokodo Health Center, Ugbokodo Secondary School, as well as a number of commercial establishments, residential structures, and places of worship, were among the vital infrastructures affected.
Jamani said that at each community visited, he assured them that “the government shares in their pain and stands in heartfelt solidarity with them during this challenging time.”
He spoke further, “I also took the opportunity to reassure all Deltans of Governor Oborevwori’s strong commitment to safeguarding lives and properties across the state.”
He assured residents that a detailed environmental investigation will be undertaken to determine the root cause of the windstorm and to develop appropriate response and mitigation strategies.
“In light of this incident, I reiterated the importance of environmental stewardship by all residents of the state.
“I warned against the indiscriminate felling of trees, which leaves our communities vulnerable to harsh environmental consequences.
“I therefore urge all residents to desist from such harmful practices and instead embrace tree planting as a proactive measure to combat climate change and reduce the impact of extreme weather events,” he said.
About The Author
