The Akoko-Edo Local Government chairman has intervened at Ojirami Dam after a malfunction in its water-release mechanism raised concerns about rising water levels following heavy rainfall. The council says a partial release eased pressure on the facility while further repairs are being pursued.
Akoko-Edo Local Government Area chairman Robert Akande Olumole has intervened at Ojirami Dam after its water-release mechanism reportedly became stiff and stopped functioning properly. The malfunction raised concerns about increasing water levels following heavy rainfall in the area.
During an inspection, Akande said the situation could have threatened lives and property if urgent action had not been taken. He recalled a reported incident in 1980 when the dam overflowed its banks after the absence of an effective water-release mechanism, with serious consequences for nearby communities.
According to the chairman, the council's intervention enabled a partial release of water, easing pressure on the facility and allowing water from the saturated dam to flow out. He directed station engineer Victor Ogendegbe to work with the council to arrange immediate repairs to the faulty mechanism.
The engineer said the station had made several requests to its head office in Benin City for repairs but had not received a positive response. He appealed to the council chairman for a drum of gear oil, 25 kilogrammes of grease and a replacement prime mover to facilitate the repair work.
Akande also raised concerns about alleged illegal gold-mining activities, claiming that some operators had diverted water channels and contributed to damage to the bridge linking Ojirami-Afe Community. He said he would convene a meeting with relevant stakeholders to examine the mining-related infrastructure concerns, community responsibilities and security challenges.