Leaders of Ideato federal constituency in Imo State have commended the inclusion of Umuchima erosion menace in the 2024 budget, saying it has restored hope in the democratic process.
The leaders made the disclosure at a reception in honour of Ugochinyere in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the constituents, Chief Sam Nwosu said “The allocation of funds to the Umuchima erosion intervention in the 2024 budget is a massive step forward in our collective quest to recover and reclaim our land from environmental disaster.
“Issues and projects like this do not just find their way into the budget by accident, but only by the deliberate and intentional efforts of a good representative. And that is exactly what Ikenga has become to Ideato nation, a representative in whom we are pleased.”
He continued: “Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere severally narrated the environmental plight of Ideato on several occasions on the floor of the house of representatives.
And for the first time in a long while, Ideato spoke and was heard loud and clear in the green chambers, and for this we are proud and grateful to Ugochinyere. We will, in our own little way, continue to support him and his advocacy for speedy mobilization to site ahead of the rainy season.”
Ugochinyere had in a motion of urgent public importance on the floor of the house of representatives, drew the attention of the federal government to the enormous loss of properties and human lives occasioned by the rampaging Umuchima erosion.
Reacting, Ugochinyere said the inclusion of the intervention project was a major step forward adding that it was not yet time for jubilation.
He said “In my opinion, it is time to be vigilant, it is time to intensify advocacy and call on the relevant agencies to expedite action and mobilize to site, engaging and deploying only competent firms to handle the intervention project because a lot is at stake for both Ideato people and the rest of Imo, Abia and Anambra state, who make use of that long stretch of road.”
He expressed reservations about the adequacy of the appropriated fund for the project, but was full of appreciation to the presidency and the leadership of the house of representatives for their prompt response to his Save-Our-Soul calls on the floor of the national assembly.
Ugochinyere promised not to stand down, in his advocacy and negotiations in the interest of Ideato people, stressing that though he lacked the executive power to award or execute projects at state or federal level, he will continue to advocate and push Ideato’s position on all issues of welfare, development and public safety.
