Due to the worsening gully erosion in Ovom street, Aba, Abia State, many residents have been evacuated by the Abia state government or have chosen to flee the area on their own accord.
The erosion, which initially began in a minor scale some years back, has now divided the road and led to the collapse of several buildings and damage to other properties in the vicinity.
During a press briefing on Sunday following his visit to the devastated site, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, expressed dismay over the unfortunate situation and lamented the devastating impact of the erosion in the area.
He voiced concerns that if immediate action is not taken to control the widespread erosion, it could not only affect all structures nearby but also pose a threat to the opposite side of the road where an infrastructure project is currently underway under his administration.
Otti directed the General Manager of Greater Aba Development Agency (GASA), Mr Uche Ukeje, to find urgent solutions to the issue within a few weeks.
He assured the community that addressing the problem would not involve manual labor but would be handled by experienced engineers and contractors who are well-versed in handling such challenges.
Regarding the residents in the affected area, Otti disclosed that he had instructed GASA to evacuate the individuals residing in the vicinity.
“I have directed him to evacuate all the residents living around here.
“So, as you can see, these houses are empty. The individuals living close by have already been evacuated,” Otti emphasized.
“Therefore, I urge everyone not to return to these buildings because it is extremely hazardous,” he added.