Erosion threatens 40 buildings in Nnewi, as Obiano gives hope

——says 900 active erosion sites in Anambra ODOGWU EMEKA ODOGWU writes that gully erosion necessitated by wrong channeling of flood water by construction companies in Onitsha has devastated several buildings at Obeleagu Ozalla Road , Onitsha Anambra state.

At the last count, the gully which was thirty-five meters deep has affected about forty (40) buildings and several others under threat.

But there appears to be hope as the Anambra State Governor , Chief Willie Obiano has assured that the erosion site at Obeleagu Ozalla Road, Onitsha will receive the attention of Anambra state government.

Governor Willie Obiano visited the site for on -the -spot assessment of the impact of the erosion on the entire area.
Governor Obiano, who said that the contractor had given assurances to control the erosion in twenty days, pointed out that they will work day and night to deliver on the project.

He expressed optimism that within the period in question, the water source will be reached and diverted, while expressing empathy at the anxiety of residents, he urged people living in houses close to the site, to consider relocating in the interim.

Governor Obiano, who recalled that he had asked the federal government to declare a state of emergency on erosion menace in the state, noted that there are more than nine hundred active erosion sites in the state.
He added that even though his administration has intervened in about fourteen sites, Anambra state government cannot control the gully erosion devastation alone, assuring however that he will continue to intervene, despite the state meagre funds.

The Commissioner for Works, Engineer Marcel Ifejiofor, who gave a brief description of the project, said that his Ministry is working with the contractor, to ensure strict compliance with standard.

In his remarks, Mr. Yusuf of the construction company handling the project, who reiterated commitment to complying with standards, applauded residents of the area for cooperating with them, promising that the ongoing work on the flood diversion channel will be delivered within the stipulated time.