The Delta State Government on Wednesday refuted claims that the demolition of some structures in Asaba, the Delta state capital, had some political undertones.The government noted that with the end of this years unusual rainy season that reached record level, the state had commenced the restoration of the landscape in Asaba, Warri, Ughelli, Agbor and Sapele.The opposition Democratic Peoples Party in the State had given indications on Tuesday that the destruction ofa popular relaxation spot belonging to a chieftain of the party in Asaba was politically motivated.The task force set up by the government demolished the relaxation spot, popularly called Giddys place which sits in a vast expanse of land at the heart of the metropolis owned by Mr. Gideon Nwaomu, a staunch DPP supporter.Nwaomu told journalists that he had the necessary documents as the legal occupant of the land, though the Commissioner for the Environment, Mr Frank Omare, who led the demolition squad refused to give reasons for the destruction of the place where the partys meetings usually take place.In a statement by the the Commissioner for Information, Mr Chike Ogeah, the government noted that the Taskforce on Flood Control and Removal set up earlier in the year had mobilised its personnel to enforce environmental laws in nine towns in the state.It said, The activities of the taskforce include the clearing of all drainage channels and natural waterways; demolition and removal of all illegal structures; clearing of refuse heaps and regulation of street trading.The exercise is a direct reaction to the record rainfall this year that led to extensive flooding in all the major towns in Delta State. The Nigeria Meteorological Agency had predicted high rainfall in Delta State in 2011.Asaba was projected to have 1,784mm, Warri 2,590mm and Sapele 1,993mm, figures that were even outstripped by the unusual rains. The heavy downpour had led to high surface runoffs, water surpluses in rivers which led to higher incidences of flood, erosion and sediment deposition.It must be stated that the ongoing push to enforce environment and urban planning laws is devoid of any political considerations. The near disaster that attended the record rains of this year are clear warning signs that except precautionary measures are taken, a major environmental crisis is inevitable in the coming years.The government, however assured that in undertaking the exercise, due process would be observed, as only properties that defy environmental laws would be affected while adequate notice would be given to defaulting property owners.
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