Over 200 families in the Rumaholu-Nkpolu Pipeline Area of Rivers State have been displaced by severe flooding. Residents reported that the flooding has also brought snakes and other reptiles into their homes, causing widespread fear and destruction of property.
According to affected residents, the flooding issue first began in 2017 when some buildings were allegedly constructed on the waterways, worsening the situation over the years. One resident, Thomas, shared that each year they are forced to leave their homes for up to seven months, waiting for the water to recede. This year, the sight of snakes surfacing from the water prompted them to flee earlier.
Thomas explained, “If you walk into the abandoned houses, you’ll find multiple snakes. At night, if you don’t have a flashlight, you risk stepping on them. That’s why many of us left.”
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, attributed the flooding to unauthorized building on the canals and urged the state government to intervene. She added, “We need an underground drainage system here. We’re using boats to get into our homes.”
The woman also expressed frustration over looting incidents, stating that thieves had broken into their homes and stolen belongings during their absence due to the floods. She called on the government to help address the root cause of the flooding to prevent further displacement and theft.
Kalu Chukwuma, the Chairman of the Landlords Association in the area, echoed the need for government action. He called for the implementation of previous recommendations on proper water channeling and stressed that the area was initially well-planned before the flooding became an issue in 2017.
“When the water level rises, it even comes up from the ground, bringing snakes with it. We’ve had to take several neighbors to the hospital, especially those without family support,”Chukwuma added.
