Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, the member representing Ideato North South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has raised concerns over the potential isolation of the Ozuomme community in Imo State caused by advancing gully erosion.

During an on-site assessment of the erosion damage alongside traditional rulers and community leaders from Urualla, Ugochinyere appealed to both the federal and state governments for immediate intervention.

He stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that without prompt action, the people of Urualla risk being cut off from access to essential services and connection to broader civilisation.

“This is Ozumme; there are three erosion sites, all connected to Urualla gully erosion,” he said.

“Arab contractors handling the project with the World Bank pulled away the 9 billion naira investment due to misunderstandings, mainly caused by the state government and local greed at the time.”

Ugochinyere added that only a coordinated effort between federal and state authorities can address the problem.

He added, “If this continues and the community is cut off, Urualla people can no longer connect to civilisation. I’m pleading with the government to come to the rescue of Urualla people. It’s on the verge of extinction; it’s hitting everywhere. We need intervention to save Ideato.”

He appreciated ongoing government attention and promised to advance formal requests, motions, and advocacy to seek lasting solutions.