Communities across Imo State are facing severe threats from erosion, with many areas at risk of being overwhelmed by gully formation. Despite numerous appeals for intervention from both state and federal governments, the situation remains dire.
Residents from affected areas, including Ugiri-Ike and Obohia, report that roads linking Ikeduru and Ahiazu Mbaise council areas are nearly impassable.
Advertorial
The situation is particularly critical on the Atta-Ugiri-Ike-Obohia road. Similarly, the Orlu–Akokwa–Uga road, which connects Imo State with Anambra, is also on the verge of being cut off.
Other roads such as the Amaraku-Umuebie route and the Uruala-Obibi-Ochasi road in Ideato North are similarly endangered by massive gullies.
Dee Romanus Uwakwe, a resident of Amaraku, expressed urgency, stating, “The road is rapidly being consumed by the gully. With the heavy rains approaching, we are at serious risk. If the road is severed, we will have no access to our homes. Immediate action is crucial to prevent a catastrophe.”
Advertorial
Residents from Spibat, Works Layout, Akwakuma, and Amakohia areas also report perennial flooding and erosion issues.
Nze Morris, a local landlord, highlighted the neglect they feel, saying, “It seems like we’ve been abandoned. Every rain brings severe flooding to our streets, and there’s no sign of intervention from the authorities. We urge you to visit during the rains to witness our suffering firsthand.”
In Umuchima community, Ideato South Local Government Area, former resident Justice Cannice Omeonu (rtd) described the devastating impact of erosion on his property.
Advertorial
His home and a N6 million palace, built with his life savings, were severely damaged by the recent erosion.
While residents continue to await a permanent solution, the Imo State government has proposed the construction of a balloon technology drainage system as a measure to combat flooding.
The effectiveness of this solution remains to be seen, as the people of Imo State anxiously anticipate relief.
