The escalating erosion crisis in Ebem Ohafia, Abia State, has reached catastrophic proportions, posing significant threats to the lives and properties of residents in the area.
The situation has been described as a disaster, with severe environmental degradation and economic hardship becoming the new normal for the affected families.
According to Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, Executive Director of the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), the erosion in Ebem Ohafia has intensified over the past 10 years, resulting in devastating damages and impacts.
“The situation is dire, and it requires immediate attention from the government,” Nwafor said. “The people of Ebem Ohafia are suffering, and it’s imperative that we act swiftly to prevent further catastrophe.”
The erosion has caused widespread destruction, with properties damaged, families displaced, and the very existence of the community under threat. The residents of Ebem Ohafia are struggling to cope with the situation, and many have lost hope.
“I’ve lost my farm, my home, and my livelihood,” said Mrs. Nneoma Okoro, a resident of Ebem Ohafia, tears streaming down her face. “I don’t know what the future holds for me and my family. The government needs to help us before it’s too late.”
Chief Uchenna Okoroafor, a community leader in Ebem Ohafia, echoed Mrs. Okoro’s sentiments. “We’ve been crying out for help for years, but nobody seems to be listening,” he said. “We’re tired of living in fear of when the next erosion will occur. We need the government to take immediate action to protect us.”
The erosion has also had a significant impact on the community’s economy.
“Our businesses are suffering because of the erosion,” said Mr. Chukwuemeka Onyeji, a local business owner. “We need the government to help us find a way to mitigate the effects of the erosion so we can rebuild our lives and our businesses.”
FENRAD has sounded the alarm, calling on the Abia State Government to take immediate action to mitigate further damage and protect the affected families. The organisation has outlined a four-point plan for the government to address the crisis.
“We urge the Abia State Government to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the erosion-affected areas in Ebem Ohafia, implement urgent erosion control measures, provide immediate relief and support to affected residents, and develop a sustainable long-term plan for erosion management and environmental conservation,” Nwafor said.
The situation in Ebem Ohafia is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of environmental degradation on communities. It is imperative that the Abia State Government takes immediate action to address the crisis and protect the lives and properties of its citizens.
“We’re not just fighting for our homes; we’re fighting for our lives,” said Mrs. Okoro. “We need the government to take us seriously and provide us with the help we need to survive.”
The Secretary Ebem Ohafia Development Union, Elder Idika Kalu Uche, echoes the plight of the people of his community, begging government to intervene.
He said: “Erosion sites abound in Ebem Ohafia community, it has rendered so many families homeless. As I speak with you, part of ‘Ebem Ujuruezie Palace’ is under serious threat.
“If nothing is done in the nearest possible time, we will lose the palace. We call on the federal, state and Ohafia local governments and other public spirited individuals to come to our rescue.”
As the erosion crisis in Ebem Ohafia continues to worsen, the need for urgent action becomes more pressing. The Abia State Government must take immediate steps to address the situation and prevent further damage.
The people of Ebem Ohafia deserve a safe and secure living environment, and it’s the government’s responsibility to ensure that.
