FG heeds Umeh's call for intervention in erosion menace in Anambra

The federal government has acknowledged Senator Victor Umeh's call for intervention to address the erosion issue in Anambra State. In September, Umeh visited various parts of the state, including Obosi, Ogidi, Awka and others, to assess the damage caused by erosion, which led to the collapse of homes and the obstruction of major roads. Following this, Umeh introduced a motion in the Senate, urging the federal government to declare Anambra Central Senatorial District an ecological disaster zone.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday in Awka, Umeh reported that his plea for assistance is beginning to bear fruit. The office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, via its ecological fund office, has indicated its intention to initiate intervention efforts. However, Umeh clarified that his role as a senator is to provide the necessary engineering drawings and cost estimates for these projects, after which the ecological fund office will be responsible for procuring services and awarding contracts.

Umeh emphasized that it is the ecological fund office's responsibility to undertake these interventions, and he has already communicated this to them. He further noted that the Senate has passed a resolution supporting their actions. In addition to this erosion intervention, Umeh has continued to fund a scholarship program for the seven local government areas he represents, despite the federal government's non-provision of funding.

He disclosed that the program, which has been ongoing for three years, costs tens of millions of naira annually, with the upcoming session's expenses amounting to approximately N75 million.