By Ogochukwu Isioma
ABUJA — The efforts by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Kalu to see an end to erosion problems in Abia State, has finally paid off following intervention moves by the Federal Government, Igbere TV reports.
Kalu representing Abia North Senatorial District, had sought FG’s intervention in the state following the level of damages done by erosion in some parts of his Constituency.
In a letter exclusively obtained by Igbere TV, entitled: “Request For Urgent Intervention in the Erosion Prone Areas of my Senatorial District”, the former governor had written specifically to Mr. Boss Mustapha, Secretary to Government of the Federation, SGF.
A response letter from the Federal Government through the Ecological Fund Management Committee, showed that the government had graciously approved the request.
“I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated 10th July 2019, on the above subject matter and to inform you that your request has been captured in Ecological Fund Office data bank for further necessary action”, the acknowledgement letter partly read.
The letter dated July 18, was signed by Engr. F. O. Okeke, the Director, Soil Erosion and Flood Control Department, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ecological Fund Office.
A follow-up letter by the Abia North Senator, dated July 18 and addressed to the SGF, further revealed that the Federal Government had captured the affected areas in its projects.
“You may wish to recall following my request on the above subject matter in your organisation which has duly been captured in the Ecological Fund Office data bank…”, the letter read in part.
While thanking the SGF for his support, the two-time Governor of Abia further requested for approval of more erosion prone areas in future projects.
“I write to request for your urgent intervention, as erosion has continuously ravaged and devastated the entire Senatorial district with total near collapse on the affected areas which are:
(a) Abiriba and Ohafia Highway in Ohafia LGA;
(b) Elu/Amaekpu/Ugwueobenzu Hospital Road Ohafia LGA;
(c) Nkporo Ubibia Itumbuzo Ring Road;
(d) Bende Town, Bende LGA.
“I further solicit for your kind intervention to save the sinking communities by approving the reconstruction of these gully affected areas in the next intervention budget”, Senator Kalu wrote.
“I look forward to meeting you in person to explain in details the deteriorating state of my Senatorial district.
“Please find attached photocopy of the intervention request letter from the Ecological Fund Office”, the Senate Chief Whip concluded.
“Thank you and please accept my warm regards from me and my family.”
