After months of persistent lobbying and advocacy by the member representing Ideato Federal Constituency of Imo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the Federal Government has finally captured and included the worsening Umuchima Ideato gully erosion in the 2024 budget and supplementary budget.
The Federal Government is at the threshold of awarding an intervention project to address the escalating Umuchima erosion problem, pending approval of a comprehensive work plan.
This initiative aims to not only halt the erosion but also ensure the holistic completion of the Orlu-Mgbe-Umuchima-Akokwa road, which is currently in a deplorable state, with homes and lives at risk of being swept away.
While Ugochinyere has lavishly praised President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the House of Representatives and other key actors, the lawmaker has also respectfully voiced the concern that the allocated funds will be insufficient to deliver a comprehensive intervention and beat back the rampaging Umuchima gully erosion.
Speaking at his office in Abuja on Monday, Ugochinyere expressed his profound gratitude to the Federal Government, particularly the Works Minister, Engr. David Umahi and the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, for their swift response in aiding the people of Ideato federal constituency.
He commended the House leadership, led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, and the chairman of the House Appropriation Committee, Hon. Abubakar Bichi, for promptly allocating funds for the intervention project.
He urged the Works Minister to use his good offices to expedite the process of awarding the project to a competent construction firm capable of immediate action on-site to address the worsening situation.
He, however, emphasised the need for a comprehensive award of the entire project to provide a lasting solution to the deteriorating Umuchima gully erosion problem.
This collaborative effort between the Ideato representative, government officials, and House of Representatives leadership showcases a proactive approach to addressing critical infrastructure challenges and demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of Ideato federal constituency of Imo State.
The impending intervention project holds promise for the residents of Ideato and signposts a significant step towards mitigating the impact of the Umuchima gully erosion in the region.
