The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has urgently appealed to the Federal Government to intervene without delay in addressing the severe damage caused by gully erosion on the Onitsha-Owerri Road. The erosion has resulted in a complete cutoff of the road, posing significant challenges to transportation and connectivity in the region.
During an inspection of the affected site, the Governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, emphasized that the state government is taking immediate action on an emergency basis, recognizing the urgent need for intervention. With over 1,000 active gully erosion sites scattered across Anambra State, the situation on the Onitsha-Owerri Road is just a glimpse of the larger erosion challenges faced by the state.
Governor Soludo further implored the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in response to the erosion menace in Anambra State. He emphasized that the people directly impacted by the hardships caused by the erosion are the indigenes of Anambra, highlighting the urgency and significance of addressing the issue promptly. The state government has taken proactive measures to intervene and mitigate the situation, aiming to prevent further deterioration before considering additional measures.
The call for Federal Government assistance in addressing the gully erosion problem serves as a plea for collaboration and coordinated efforts to combat this environmental hazard. Governor Soludo’s appeal aims to safeguard the well-being and livelihoods of the affected communities, stressing the importance of immediate action and long-term solutions to tackle erosion challenges in Anambra State.
In his statement, he expressed deep concern over the significant erosion challenges faced by Anambra State, highlighting that there are currently more than 1,000 active erosion sites within the state’s boundaries. Drawing attention to the erosion specifically occurring at the Onitsha-Owerri road near Oba, he emphasized the urgent need for immediate action to address this devastating issue.
While acknowledging that the responsibility to address such matters lies with the Federal Government, he stressed that the state government is not waiting for external assistance and is taking proactive measures to tackle the erosion crisis as an emergency situation. This exemplifies their commitment to protecting the well-being and safety of the affected communities despite the primary responsibility resting with the national government.
In light of the deteriorating condition of this road, we earnestly implore the Federal Government to promptly step in and take decisive action to prevent its imminent and irreversible collapse. The urgency of the situation necessitates swift intervention to ensure the continued functionality and safety of this vital transportation route. It is our sincere hope that the government recognizes the gravity of the situation and allocates the necessary resources to address the pressing concerns and challenges faced by this road. By doing so, they will not only safeguard the well-being of the populace but also uphold their responsibility to uphold and maintain the nation’s infrastructure for the benefit of all citizens.
Mr. Ifeanyi Okomma, the Commissioner for Works, has provided an explanation regarding a significant erosion problem along the Onitsha-Owerri Road, spanning a distance of eight kilometers plus 100.
He highlighted that the Anambra State Government, with the approval of Soludo, has taken swift action to address the issue. Tamad Construction Limited has already commenced intervention measures, successfully halting the further progression of the erosion.
With the initial objective accomplished, the next step is to prevent any additional erosion damage while awaiting the intervention of the Federal Government, as stated by Mr. Okomma.
Sir Obadi Ifedili, the President-General of Oba Community, expressed gratitude to the governor for dispatching a team to assess the gully erosion, which has been a persistent concern. Additionally, he appealed to the Federal Government for prompt action, emphasizing that the road in question is under federal jurisdiction and serves as a vital link to other states.
Read more updates on politics on our page: Tinubu becomes the new chairman of ECOWAS.
