Owerri: The Lawmaker representing Ideato North and South Federal Constituency of Imo, Mr. Ikenga Ugochinyere, has expressed concern over the threats posed by erosion and insecurity to his constituency. He urged the State and Federal Governments to address these issues without further delay.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ugochinyere highlighted that erosion had already ravaged buildings and farmlands, while many lives had been cut short by bandit activities. He acknowledged the progress made by the State and Federal Governments in controlling the Umuchima erosion but pointed out that more significant challenges had emerged in other areas, such as Urualla. In Urualla, where the World Bank withdrew, erosion has worsened, and new communities are sinking daily.
He noted that Urualla alone had three erosion sites and mentioned the ongoing construction of a 1.2km drainage to control the erosion into the Orashi River. However, he stated that his efforts are limited due to new erosion challenges in Obodoukwu, Isiokpo, and Ejezie communities. Ugochinyere emphasized the urgent need for intervention in controlling erosion in the two Local Government Areas, which have contributed significantly to the development of the state and the country.
On security issues, the lawmaker lamented the worsening breaches in the area and called for the establishment of local vigilance groups. He expressed deep regrets over a recent attack in Arondiizuogu communities, where more than 26 people were reportedly killed. Ugochinyere urged for the activation of local vigilance systems funded by Local Governments and supported by various communities.
He criticized the lack of adequate local security infrastructure and support, noting that most communities lack local security guards, and those that do exist are poorly equipped and compensated. Ugochinyere also expressed disappointment that the State Government had not provided relief materials to support the victims.
The lawmaker announced his personal efforts to assist those affected, including a disbursement of N5 million to survivors and families of deceased persons. He launched the ‘Ideato Emergency Fund,’ which has so far raised N32 million towards a N50 million target to support families of victims and survivors.
Ugochinyere also criticized the local government chairmen for not fulfilling their responsibilities despite receiving substantial monthly allocations. He called upon the Ideato North and South Local Government Chairmen to support the victims and survivors of insecurity in their areas.
Additionally, Ugochinyere voiced his dissatisfaction with how he was treated by the Peoples Democratic Party, despite his loyalty and achievements for the party. He threatened to leave the party if the alleged maltreatment continued and listed his accomplishments, including legislative initiatives and infrastructure projects, as evidence of his commitment to his constituency.