The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has urged residents to stop dumping waste into drainage systems and waterways, warning that blocked channels could increase the risk of flooding, property destruction, and loss of lives during the ongoing rainy season.

The warning was issued on Monday by the Anambra State Command of the NSCDC as authorities stepped up efforts to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding across vulnerable communities.

Speaking at the Command Headquarters in Awka on behalf of State Commandant Maku Olatunde, the Head of Media and Tactical Operations, SC Okadigbo Edwin, said many flood-related incidents can be prevented through responsible environmental practices.

“Heavy rains usually come with higher risks of flooding, building collapse, erosion, and other environmental hazards,” he said.

He added that residents must adopt proper waste disposal habits and comply with safety guidelines to reduce the dangers associated with extreme weather.

Why It Matters

Flooding remains one of Nigeria’s most recurring environmental challenges, especially during the rainy season.

Several communities across the country experience damaged roads, submerged homes, displaced families, and disruptions to economic activities when drainage systems become clogged with refuse.

Experts have repeatedly linked urban flooding to poor waste management, unregulated construction on waterways, and inadequate drainage infrastructure.

The warning from the NSCDC comes as meteorological and emergency management agencies continue to encourage proactive measures to reduce disaster risks in flood-prone areas.

Residents Urged to Take Preventive Measures

The NSCDC advised residents to regularly clear drainage channels around their homes and business premises and avoid activities that obstruct the natural flow of water.

According to the agency, blocked drainages remain one of the leading causes of flooding in many communities.

“Blocked drainage channels are a leading cause of floods across communities, often resulting in loss of lives and property damage,” Okadigbo said.

The Corps also cautioned against building structures on waterways, a practice experts say can worsen flooding and erosion during periods of heavy rainfall.

Residents living in riverine communities were advised to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas if water levels begin to rise.

Government Agencies Activate Flood Mitigation Plans

The NSCDC said it is working closely with federal, state, and local emergency management agencies to strengthen disaster preparedness across Anambra State.

According to the Command, collaborative efforts involving the state government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), local government authorities, and other stakeholders have already been activated.

“NSCDC, working with the Anambra State Government, NEMA, SEMA, Local Government Mayors, and other partners, has activated comprehensive mitigation strategies to cushion the impact of any incidents during the 2026 rainy season.”

The Command disclosed that its Disaster Management Unit has begun awareness campaigns in flood-prone local government areas to educate residents on flood prevention and emergency preparedness.

Expert Perspective

Environmental experts say public awareness remains one of the most effective tools for reducing flood-related disasters.

Urban planning specialists have consistently argued that preventing indiscriminate dumping of refuse, improving drainage maintenance, and enforcing building regulations can significantly reduce the impact of seasonal flooding.

They note that while government interventions are important, community participation is essential for long-term environmental sustainability.

What Happens Next?

The NSCDC says it will continue sensitisation campaigns across communities while monitoring flood-prone areas throughout the rainy season.

Authorities are expected to intensify public awareness programmes and emergency response planning as rainfall increases in the coming months.

Residents are also being encouraged to report blocked waterways and environmental hazards to relevant authorities before they escalate into emergencies.

BOCA Energy Resources Ltd has confirmed that its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, James Ukachukwu, will chair the annual Press Week of the Correspondent’s Chapel scheduled for June 27, 2026, in Lagos.

The confirmation comes after a formal invitation was extended to the energy executive by the planning committee of the NUJ Lagos State Council Correspondents’ Chapel.

According to BOCA Energy Resources Ltd, Mr Ukachukwu has personally accepted the invitation and will attend the event in person, signalling continued engagement between Nigeria’s corporate sector and the media industry.

Why it matters

The annual Press Week is regarded as one of the most significant gatherings of journalists in Lagos, bringing together political, business, investigative and economic correspondents from leading media organisations.

The event serves as a platform for discussions on journalism ethics, professional development, press freedom and the evolving role of the media in Nigeria’s democracy.

Industry observers say the participation of leading business executives can help strengthen dialogue between the media and private sector, particularly at a time when transparency, accountability and economic reforms remain key national issues.

BOCA Energy confirms CEO’s attendance

In a statement, BOCA Energy’s Head of Media and Publicity, confirmed that the company’s chief executive had formally accepted the invitation.

“The Chairman has officially responded to the letter from the events organisers, in which he affirmed his intention to attend in person. He looks forward to engaging with the foremost correspondents in Lagos and supporting the Chapel’s dedication to journalistic excellence and professional development.”

The statement highlights the company’s support for media development and professional journalism in Nigeria.

A platform for journalism and public discourse

The NUJ Lagos Correspondents’ Chapel Press Week traditionally features lectures, panel discussions, symposia, awards presentations and networking sessions.

The programme is designed to encourage high standards of reporting, ethical journalism and collaboration among media professionals.

Media analysts note that such gatherings provide opportunities for journalists, policymakers, business leaders and civil society stakeholders to discuss issues affecting governance, economic development and public accountability.

Energy sector perspective

Mr Ukachukwu’s participation is expected to bring insights from Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, one of the country’s most important economic sectors.

With years of experience in corporate leadership and energy operations, he is anticipated to contribute to conversations surrounding energy security, investment opportunities, economic growth and the role of the media in shaping public understanding of national issues.

Analysts say stronger engagement between the media and strategic industries can improve public access to information and foster informed debate on policy decisions affecting citizens.

About BOCA Energy Resources Ltd

Boca Energy Resources is an indigenous oil and gas company with operations spanning exploration, production and downstream services.

The company says it remains committed to operational excellence, safety standards and sustainable development while contributing to Nigeria’s energy sector and host communities.

What happens next?

The NUJ Lagos Correspondents’ Chapel Press Week is expected to attract journalists, public officials, business leaders and communication professionals from across the country.

Organisers say details of the programme lineup and guest speakers will be announced ahead of the June 27 event.

A woman and her 11-year-old twin sons who were abducted on their way to school in Ibadan have been rescued unharmed following a coordinated police operation that also led to the arrest of four suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate.

The victims, identified as Mrs Adegoke Olaide Busayo, 42, and her twin sons, Peter and Paul, were kidnapped on 3 June along Elewura Street, off Ring Road, Ibadan, according to the Oyo State Police Command.

Police said two suspected kidnappers were killed during a gun battle with operatives, while four others were arrested as part of ongoing investigations.

The operation was carried out by officers from the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT), working alongside the Oyo State Police Command and other tactical units.

How the Kidnapping Happened

According to police, the victims were abducted by four armed men travelling in an unregistered ash-coloured vehicle while the mother was taking her children to school.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State ordered an immediate intelligence-led operation to track down the perpetrators and rescue the victims.

Investigators said early intelligence gathering led to the arrest of Wale Abolalewa, also known as “Oloro”, a suspect already on the police watchlist for alleged involvement in related criminal activities.

His arrest reportedly provided crucial information that helped investigators uncover the wider network behind the kidnapping.

Police later arrested another suspect, Dare Oyedele, popularly known as “Solution”, who was described as a key member of the gang.

Months of Surveillance

Investigators revealed that the gang had allegedly carried out extensive surveillance on the family before the abduction.

According to preliminary findings, the suspects had attempted to recruit an insider linked to the household in May 2026 to help monitor the family’s movements.

Police said digital evidence recovered during the investigation included photographs of the family’s vehicles, the children’s school environment, and details of their daily routines.

Authorities believe the information was used to carefully plan the kidnapping operation.

Dramatic Rescue Operation

Using intelligence gathered during the investigation, operatives traced the gang to a hideout in the Lado community area of Ayegun, Ibadan.

Police said tactical teams stormed the location on the evening of 6 June in an operation aimed at rescuing the victims alive.

According to the Command, a suspected gang member identified as “Kelechi”, who allegedly travelled from Lagos State and acted as a lookout, opened fire on approaching officers.

The ensuing gun battle resulted in the deaths of Kelechi and another unidentified suspect.

After securing the hideout, officers rescued Mrs Busayo and her two sons without injuries.

The family was placed under protective custody before being reunited with relatives.

Weapons, Vehicle Recovered

Police said several items believed to have been used by the syndicate were recovered during the operation.

Recovered exhibits include:

– Three pump-action guns

– Fourteen live cartridges

– An unregistered ash-coloured Toyota Corolla allegedly used during the abduction

– Two face masks

– A battle axe

– A hammer

– Suspected hard drugs

– Charms allegedly used by the suspects

Two additional suspects identified as Semiu Ishola, 39, and Adeyemi Ayobami, 35, were also arrested.

Police alleged they helped facilitate the use of the hideout where the victims were held.

Why It Matters

Kidnapping remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing security challenges, affecting families, businesses and public confidence in safety across several states.

Security analysts say successful rescue operations without payment of ransom are significant because they demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and inter-agency cooperation.

The case also highlights growing concerns over the use of surveillance techniques by criminal groups to profile potential victims before carrying out attacks.

Police Appeal to the Public

The Oyo State Police Command said investigations are continuing and efforts are underway to apprehend other members of the gang who escaped during the operation.

Authorities urged hospitals, medical practitioners, traditional bone setters and members of the public to report anyone presenting suspicious gunshot wounds.

The Command also called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.

In a statement issued during the briefing, police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property and pledged to continue pursuing criminal groups operating within the state.

What Happens Next?

Investigators are expected to continue tracking other suspected members of the syndicate believed to have fled with injuries.

The arrested suspects remain in custody and are assisting ongoing investigations that could lead to additional arrests and possible prosecution.

As security agencies intensify efforts against kidnapping networks, residents will be watching closely to see whether the operation marks a broader breakthrough in tackling organised crime in Oyo State.