The Imo State House of Assembly has called on the state government to urgently intervene in response to severe flooding affecting residents of Works Layout, Owerri, resulting in property damage and loss of life.
During a recent plenary session, Deputy Minority Leader Clinton Amadi moved the motion, expressing concern and sympathy for residents in flooded areas. He highlighted the need for immediate action to prevent further casualties, urging the evacuation of debris and sand from the burrow pit and tunnel that serve the community.
Amadi emphasized the ongoing hardships faced by residents of Kurume Uche Street and the Standard Shoe area, noting that their lives and properties are at serious risk every time it rains in Owerri. He reminded the assembly of previous efforts by Governor Hope Uzodimma, who had constructed the Balloon Technology Tunnel to facilitate effective drainage during the rainy season. However, he pointed out that the lack of maintenance has led to blockages in the burrow pit and tunnel, impeding the flow of floodwaters.
The motion received widespread support, being co-sponsored by nine lawmakers and seconded by Engr. Bernard Ozoemelam. Speaker Rt Hon Chike Olemgbe put the resolution to a vote, which was unanimously adopted. The Clerk has been directed to communicate the assembly’s resolution to the Governor for immediate action.