Abuja Flooding Raises Concerns Over Green Area Conversions

A heavy downpour in Abuja on Saturday caused extensive flooding in several areas, disrupting vehicular movement and affecting residential and business properties. Notably, properties belonging to Kano State Deputy Governor Murtala Garo and former Inspector-General of Police Solomon Arase were impacted.

The flooding worsened due to the covering of a major canal for construction linked to a senator, which was built on a green area and canal corridor. Areas severely affected included Wuse 1, Wuse 2, Durumi, Gaduwa, and Gudu.

Residents reported that many vehicles were stranded for hours, with some suffering mechanical issues. In Maitama Extension, flooding forced estate management to call engineers for assistance.

Concerns were raised about indiscriminate construction along waterways and blocked drainage channels, which contributed to the flooding. A source revealed that approximately 20 duplexes are being constructed on a designated green area in Maitama Extension, further alarming residents about the ongoing conversion of green spaces.