The Deputy Speaker and member representing Ohafia South State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Ifeanyi Uchendu has decried the devastating gully erosion sites in Ohafia South State Constituency and the non-inclusion of same in the priority list of Abia in the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP).

The Lawmaker revealed this when he came under matter of urgent public importance during the Abia State House of Assembly Plenary for Monday, 22nd February, 2021.

Rt. Hon. Uchendu noted that NEWMAP, which is a World Bank assisted State-led agency whose primary responsibility is to respond to the challenges of gully erosions, emerging land degradation and other environmental challenges have not executed a single remediation work in Ohafia South State Constituency, despite the number of active gully erosions ravaging many communities in the area.

He further stated that the erosion sites pose devastating threats to many lives, properties and essential infrastructure while informing the House that gullies have developed along the corridors of Amaekpu-Elu Onyirinmba Road, Elu-Ebem Court Road, Baksassi in Amaekpu, Water Works Road, Elu and Ndi Uduma Awoke.

The Lawmaker prayed the House to mandate the leadership of Abia NEWMAP and the Technical Committee to visit the erosion sites for an on the spot assessment and subsequent inclusion of same in the priority list for urgent action.

Reacting to the issue after contributions from Members, the Speaker, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji said he would align himself wholly to the prayers made by the Deputy Speaker. He further urged the executive arm of government to direct the leadership and technical unit of Abia NEWMAP to visit the affected areas for an on-the-spot assessment and to offer immediate remedial solutions to prevent loss of lives and property.