NUPENG cautions against building on river banks

September 29, 2012 15:45

NAN-H-41

Flood

Lagos, Sept. 29, 2012 (NAN) The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers has advised the Lagos State government against giving approval for the erection of buildings in flood-pruned areas such as river banks.

Mr Isaac Aberare, the general secretary of the union, gave the advice in a statement issued on Saturday in Lagos.

He said that government at all levels should enlighten the public to the effect of climate change which is partly responsible for the upsurge in flooding.

According to the statement, adequate forecast and enlightenment should be provided on possible extent of damage when water is to be released from dams.

This, the union said, would serve as early warning to people dwelling along river banks.

It urged the Federal Government to assist flood victims and dispatch medical teams to communities that had been ravaged by floods to avert outbreak of epidemic.

The union also asked the government to respond quickly to the request for a supplementary budget to provide succour to the victims.

It suggested the declaration of state of emergency in the affected communities and provision of relief materials and temporary abode for the victims.

The union commiserated with families of those who lost their lives in the floods. (NAN)

CHIN/AIB/NOL

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