Governor Obiono with other officials at the Ukpo erosion site
By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Anambra State Government has reassured of addressing the erosion challenge at Akpu Village, Ukpo, in Dunukofia Local Government Area within one month.
Governor Willie Obiano made the promise when he visited the erosion site.
The erosion which is already threatening to cut the Abba-Ukpo bypass in two was said to have intensified after the recent torrential rains.
During the visit it was observed that construction of retaining walls has been ongoing to check the challenge which was allegedly caused by improper termination of drainages.
Speaking after he went round the site, Governor Obiano who noted that fund will be released immediately for the intervention, said work has been ongoing at the site at a moderate pace due to paucity of funds.
The governor pointed out that his administration is presently intervening in many erosion sites, roads construction and meeting other responsibilities without receiving any assistance from the Federal Government and assured that his government will not allow the challenge to escalate further.
He appealed to the Federal Government to release the funds owed the state on its repair of Federal Roads across the state to enable him intensify work across the various projects he is handling.
The Member representing Dunukofia Constituency in the state House of Assembly, Mr Lawrence Ezeudu said the governor’s visit to the site had gone a long way to reassure the people of government’s commitment towards their welfare.
He noted that aside the threat to life which the gully challenge constitutes it had also cut off access to major markets in the area.
The President-General of Ukpo community, Mr Vincent Oyilagu thanked the governor for his promise to address the challenge.
A resident of the area, Mrs Bridget Oba, harped on the need for urgent government intervention on the site as they now live in constant fear and anxiety due to the challenge.
