Sango traders lament, as flooding hinders profit
…Call for urgent govt intervention to address drainage issues
By Sodiq Adelakun
Traders and business owners in Sango area of Ogun State have expressed their frustration over the poor drainage system that has led to frequent flooding, severely impacting their businesses.
On Tuesday, the area experienced another bout of flooding, causing fear and tension among the traders and making it difficult for them to resume their daily activities on time.
In an interview with our correspondent, the traders complained about the continuous flooding that has been affecting their businesses and properties for the past ten years, without any significant intervention from the government to provide a proper market infrastructure.
The issue of flooding doesn’t only affect the traders, but also the nearby bank.
The traders urged the incumbent governor to take immediate action to address the dire situation.
A trader, John Okechukwu, described how the flood has paralyzed businesses, with the water level even submerging vehicles.
He emphasised that the problem originated from the poor construction of the road, which hinders the adequate flow of water.
Okechukwu stressed the need for urgent action to protect lives, properties, and businesses.
He said, “The flood has continue to paralyse our businesses, the level of water use to swallow vehicles. It is very dangerous to the extent that it sweeps through Ecobank. The problem remains that there was error from the beginning, when they constructed the road, they didn’t do it well, water cannot flow adequately. Something must be done for the sake of life, property and businesses.
“The flood has been here for more than ten years. Looking at the flood swallowing vehicle, there is every tendencies that if care is not taken, the flood may swallow human being.
“I advise that the government should send delegates to observe and find out the problem we are facing.”
Another trader, Chigozie Okeke, shared a similar statement, stating that the water level reaches waist and abdomen levels every time there is heavy rainfall.
He emphasised the urgent need for a lasting solution to be provided by the government, as the current situation is severely impacting their businesses.
“This morning, water full everywhere, three motors were inside. It is almost ten years.. The water will reach waist and abdomen level everytime it rains hard.
“Adequate and lasting solution has not been provided, which is one of the main issues the government need to attend to.
“We are suffering here, it’s really affecting our businesses,” He said.
Meanwhile, a female trader expressed her frustration over the continuous flooding, highlighting the lack of urgent and effective solutions implemented by the authorities.
“It’s been long we’ve been appealing to our governments, both incumbent and the past, though, they’ve been doing one or two to combat this, but lasting solution is what has not been identified.
“The drainage need to be properly cleared and everything need to be out in place. I hereby call on the local and State government to help us table our predicament,” she reiterated.
