By Ayodele Abere
The Chairman of the Ekiti State Environmental Protection and Watershed Management Agency Board, Honourable Bamitale Oguntoyinbo, has reaffirmed Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of the state’s residents.
Oguntoyinbo made this known while speaking with journalists in Otun-Ekiti during an inspection tour of the ongoing dredging projects at Inisa, Amutu, Oke Ose, and Mayan rivers in Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
He expressed concerns over the risks posed by flooding in the affected areas and emphasized the need for proactive measures to mitigate the danger.
Commending the General Manager of the agency for a job well done, Oguntoyinbo stated, “We assumed office in October 2024 as board members, and it is important for us to visit project sites where the agency is actively working. We must assess the work being done and support Mr. Governor in his efforts to improve the lives of Ekiti residents.”
After assessing the dredging work, Oguntoyinbo noted that the board provided recommendations for further improvements. He urged residents to desist from building houses in flood-prone areas and advised them on proper disposal of waste to the appropriate places to prevent blockages in drainage systems and waterways.
Similarly, the General Manager of the Ekiti State Environmental Protection and Watershed Management Agency (EKSEPWAMA), Mr. Olukayode Adunmo, explained that the purpose of the tour was to give board members firsthand knowledge of the agency’s ongoing projects.
“I have previously presented reports to them in the boardroom, but it is crucial for them to witness the work on the ground for a better understanding of our efforts,” Adunmo stated.
He emphasized that the ultimate goal of the project is to prevent flooding in Ekiti communities and safeguard lives and property. He also appreciated Governor Oyebanji for providing the necessary funds to facilitate the dredging efforts.
The Special Adviser on Special Services, Prince Adewole Ajakaye, who also oversees Independent Project Monitoring in the Governor’s Office, highlighted the importance of regular project evaluations.
“As part of our weekly activities, we must inspect the Inisa River dredging project to ensure compliance with the approved contract specifications,” Ajakaye noted.
While confirming that the project was still on schedule, he mentioned that a slight extension might be required due to an unexpected mechanical issue with the swamp buggy excavator. Nevertheless, he expressed satisfaction with the progress so far.
Residents of the area also shared their appreciation for the government’s intervention.
Mr. Ibitoye Michael Idowu, popularly known as Baba Soldier, commended the state government for initiating the project, stating that it would improve water flow and enhance land usability.
Similarly, Mr. Joseph Omotoso, also known as Olorunlagba, whose house is near the river, expressed joy over the development, noting that flooding had been a major challenge for them during the rainy season.
He prayed for continued success and prosperity for the Biodun Oyebanji-led administration.