This originally was outside steps going into the basement with a drain at the bottom. Since then a porch was built over the steps so it does not get direct rain. Water drains from the base of the bottom step to the drain and I would like to plug the drain but can't because of the constant (off and on) drainage. I want to seal around the walls of the step enclosure but because of the dampness I can not do this. Can you help me determine how to stop this drainage?

Look into sealing the OUTSIDES of the enclosure, both above ground, and below it. You may well have to inspect the outside of the entire basement or at least that particular side, and that's a lot of digging. Ever get water in the basement other than around the steps?