Samuel Marshall
Elder statesman urges Governor to revive Okilo’s canalisation vision to
curb floods and transform Port Harcourt into a modern waterway city.
Rev. Sokari Soberekon, a respected elder statesman from Port Harcourt, has congratulated Governor Siminalayi Fubara on his reinstatement after a six-month suspension imposed by President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking to The Newswriter at Isaac Boro Park, Port Harcourt, on Tuesday, 30th September 2025, Rev. Soberekon urged the governor to prioritize the construction of a canal as his most significant infrastructural project.
“I congratulate Governor Fubara on his return. Now that he’s back, the most important project he should undertake is to build a canal for Port Harcourt,” he declared. He recalled that the canalisation initiative was first proposed by the late former Governor Melford Okilo, urging Fubara to use his influence to bring the long-delayed vision to reality.
The clergyman proposed that the canal should run from Port Harcourt township to the Imbiama River, with specifications of 25 feet in depth and 40 to 45 feet in width. According to him, the canal would serve as a natural drainage system, collecting flood waters from the city and its environs.
Rev. Soberekon further noted that the canal could function as an additional river within Rivers State, enabling flat-bottomed boats to operate as passenger ferries, akin to those used in Holland. He expressed confidence that such a project would significantly reduce the perennial flooding that leaves many residents stranded during the rainy season.
Sokari made a notable statement. He emphasised that “all structures and buildings extending beyond their designated survey pillars on Woji Road, should be removed – including my house, if found in violation – as part of our fight against flooding.” This highlights his commitment to addressing the persistent issue of flooding.
In closing, he said: “I congratulate Governor Fubara and thank God for his return. But this time, it should be all about canalisation… canalisation… canalisation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”****
