Attitudes and practice of flood control measures among residents of Rumueme Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State

Abstract

The study investigated the attitudes and practice of flood control measures amongst residents of Rumueme Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. A descriptive research survey design was adopted. Sample size was 102 respondents which is 10% of the target population of study selected through simple random sampling technique. Instrument for data collection was a validated structured questionnaire. Data collection was through direct delivery and retrieval method which allowed for high return rate of the instrument. Data were analyzed using statistical tool of frequency, tables and simple percentage. Findings revealed poor environmental management options (55%), weak implementation of planning policies (58%), streams and channel obstruction due to indiscriminate waste disposal habits and human activities in flood plains (65%), lack of drainage infrastructure (57%), indiscriminate dumping of refuse on drainage channels and poor drainage conditions (61%) and extensive rainfall in the Community (70%) were the causes of flooding in the study area. With regards to the attitude towards flood control measures, residence indulge in indiscriminate littering and open dumping of waste generated in drainages (77%), nonchalant attitudes amongst residence on flood control measures (85%), inability to obey relevant land use laws which help to mitigate the flooding in the area (83%) and not involving in regular cleaning of the drainages in order to reduce flooding and divert excessive flow (79%). Recommendations were made among others that Government and Community Leaders should provide a master plan for flood control and relief measures for victims, enact and enforce sanitation laws which are aimed at mitigating floods in the community.