Rainstorm Wreaks Havoc In Delta

Roofs of houses, cars, advertisement billboards, ancient trees, shops and kiosks have been destroyed by the whirlwind that accompanied the heavy rainstorm that fell in Asaba, the Delta State Capital.

The widespread destruction forced residents and business owners to weep as they counted their losses. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori immediately ordered the state’s Signage and Advertisement Agency(DESSAA) in Asaba yesterday to fully implement all laws that regulate outdoor advertising practice in the state.

The wind, which struck during a torrential downpour, wreaked havoc around the busy Okpanam road and Ibusa Junction area, where roofing sheets were torn off and seen flying in the sky. Billboards that were erected with substandard materials all gave way, even as hundreds of makeshift kiosks were scattered on the roads.

The debris temporarily disrupted traffic and forced traders, motorists, and pedestrians to take shelter as the situation unfolded. A car dealer’s shop suffered significant damage as a large billboard collapsed on neatly parked vehicles, including a Mercedes-Benz, on display.

The Governor, through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Eze Emu, said this will regulate and sanitise outdoor advertising practice across the state.

“Operation Tag Your Boards. All billboard structures must henceforth carry the emblem /company name of the owner/ practitioner to whom they belong.

“All practitioners are requested to submit their ARCON Certificates to DESSAA’s Director of Administration’s Office; and “Submit their site(s) list and approvals duly obtained and authorised by DESSAA”, the order read.

The Governor said, “The measures are to be put in place within the next seven days from the release of this notice.”