Gully Erosion Threatens Imo Community with Isolation, Rep Ugochinyere Raises Alarm
Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the member representing Ideato North/South Federal Constituency of Imo State in the House of Representatives, has sounded the alarm over the escalating threat of gully erosion in the Ozuomme community, warning that the area risks being completely cut off from the rest of the state.
Speaking during an on-site inspection of the affected areas—accompanied by traditional rulers and local leaders from the Urualla communities—Ugochinyere described the scale of the erosion as catastrophic.
“This is Ozuomme,” he said, pointing to the massive gorges. “There are three erosion sites, all linked to the larger Urualla gully erosion. Arab Contractors had begun work on this project with funding from the World Bank. Unfortunately, due to internal disputes and mismanagement—largely fueled by the actions of the state government and certain self-serving local interests—the World Bank withdrew its N9 billion commitment.”
The lawmaker expressed deep regret over the collapse of the international partnership, blaming local political interference and governance failures for stalling what could have been a life-saving intervention.
Ugochinyere emphasized that unless both the federal and state governments act swiftly, the Ozuomme and wider Urualla areas could be cut off entirely, endangering lives and livelihoods.
“If this continues, the Urualla people will lose their connection to the rest of society,” he said. “I’m pleading for immediate intervention. This erosion is expanding rapidly—it threatens homes, infrastructure, and even the survival of the community.”
He affirmed his commitment to escalating the matter through formal legislative channels. “We will follow up with motions, advocacy, and formal requests. We appreciate that both federal and state authorities have shown willingness to listen, but now is the time for urgent action.”
Residents of the community echoed his concerns, saying they live in constant fear, particularly during the rainy season, when the risk of further erosion is at its peak. Many say vital access roads and farmland are already being consumed by the advancing gulleys.
