Senate calls for remedial works on erosion sites in Imo…

Senate has urged Ecological Fund Office (EFO) and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to embark on remedial works on Obodoukwu, Urualla, Akokwa, Umumaisiaku, Urachima and Umueshi gully erosion sites in Ideato North and South Local Governments in Imo State.

It urged the agencies to jointly engage geologists, hydrologists and environmental engineers to conduct assessment and implement measures like stabilisation, gabion installations, terracing, to prevent further losses, minimise risks to nearby communities.

The motion was sponsored by Izunaso Osita. In his lead debate, he said the total collapse of the Obodoukwu, Urualla, Akokwa, Umumaisiaku, Umuchima and Umueshi gully erosion sites have become treacherous leading to loss of human lives, properties worth over N4 billion and inflicted severe injuries.

He decried the continuous loss of lives, businesses and properties of individuals, non-governmental organisation and the government by the erosion menance.

He said the total number of affected communities were 12 and that the two local governments share border with Anambra, Enugu and Abia states.

He expressed concern that the gullies and floodwaters was now beyond the Imo State government, hence, the need for Federal Government’s presence to urgently undertake immediate remedial work.

Contributing to a motion, Victor Umeh, who represents Anambra Central, said many communities in Anambra State have been ravaged by flood and warned of imminent dangers.

Umeh said there was a particular federal road in Anambra almost being cut off by ravaging flood. He urged relevant government agencies to step in and assist the South East in battling the menace of flooding.

Senate in its further resolution urged NEMA to urgently implement a community resettlement plan, where necessary, to relocate residents from high-risk areas, providing them with adequate housing, livelihood support, and necessary amenities.