Umeh begs Nigerian govt to declare Anambra Central ecological disaster zone as erosion swallows houses
Senator Victor Umeh, representing the Anambra Central Senatorial District, has urged the federal government to designate his district as an ecological disaster zone due to severe flooding and erosion issues.
Recent torrential rainfall has caused significant flooding and soil erosion in parts of Awka, the capital of Anambra State. These weather conditions have resulted in the tragic drowning of a six-year-old boy and the collapse of three houses into a nearby erosion gully, displacing their residents.
Umeh made his appeal during a visit over the weekend to the family of the drowned child and the sites affected by the erosion. He expressed his concerns regarding the widespread devastation, stating that every local government in his senatorial district is grappling with similar challenges.
“This area is under threat. Houses have collapsed, and more may follow,” Umeh said. “The continuous rain exacerbates the situation, highlighting the urgent need for government intervention. Remedial action is necessary to stop the erosion.”
He emphasized that only federal assistance could address the ongoing crisis effectively. “I believe declaring our district an ecological disaster zone is crucial. This will enable the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to prioritize our needs as an emergency.”
Umeh also mentioned that he has a pending motion before the Senate regarding issues in the Idemili North and South axises, which he plans to update to reflect the current circumstances in Awka.
Among those affected, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, AIG Celestine Okoye, voiced his frustrations, saying the community now lives in fear of further disasters. Umeh also visited Mr. and Mrs. Ezenwafor, who recently lost their young son in the flooding, offering condolences and support during this difficult time.
