By peterside Rejoice
Senator Nwachukwu Emmanuel, representing Anambra South Senatorial District, has raised the alarm over worsening erosion, collapsing federal roads and growing economic disruption in the zone, warning that urgent federal intervention is needed to avert a looming transportation and humanitarian crisis.
Speaking to journalists after plenary at the National Assembly, the lawmaker said the deteriorating situation informed his first motion on the floor of the Senate, describing Anambra South as the epicentre of erosion disasters in Nigeria.
He said several communities and major transport corridors in the district are under severe threat, with erosion steadily advancing and critical infrastructure failing.
One of the most affected areas, according to the Senator, is the Onitsha–Owerri Road at Okija, where erosion has already consumed one side of the dual carriageway and is rapidly encroaching on the remaining lane.
“This road is no longer an Anambra issue alone. It is a major national corridor linking Imo, Abia, Rivers and other neighbouring states. If it is cut off, the consequences will be catastrophic for trade and mobility,” he warned.
Senator Emmanuel also highlighted the deplorable condition of the Oba–Nnewi–Amichi–Uga road, noting that the federal road has remained in disrepair since 2003, with less than 50 per cent of the project completed despite its economic importance.
He further disclosed that the collapse of an old metal bridge built in the 1960s, while two replacement bridges remain unfinished, has cut off several communities, disrupted commercial activities, increased transportation costs and limited access to healthcare and education.
“These are real human challenges affecting traders, students, patients and entire communities,” the Senator said.
He explained that although the motion appeared on the Senate Order Paper in November 2025, legislative scheduling delayed its consideration until now. However, he expressed optimism following the Senate’s response.
According to him, the Senate President has directed the Committee on Works to urgently intervene, while an on-the-spot inspection of the affected roads has been scheduled within the next two weeks to compel action by the Federal Ministry of Works.
On the recent closure of the Onitsha Main Market, Senator Emmanuel called for calm and collective responsibility, noting that while the situation is emotional, it requires sober reflection.
He recalled that May 30 has long been observed across Igboland as a solemn day of remembrance for lives lost during the civil war but warned that the prolonged enforcement of sit-at-home orders over the past three years has caused significant economic damage in the South-East.
“Our region contributes less than eight per cent to Nigeria’s GDP. By shutting down economic activities every Monday, we are unintentionally shrinking our economy further,” he said.
He added that the disruptions have reduced banking operations, discouraged investment and weakened commercial activities across the region.
The Senator commended Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, for what he described as decisive leadership in restoring security and stabilising the state’s economy.
He praised the establishment of the Agụnechemba Security Network, the passage of enabling laws and the deployment of modern security equipment, which he said have reduced criminal activities and restored public confidence.
“Governor Soludo understands that no economy can grow under fear and uncertainty,” he said.
Senator Emmanuel expressed support for the governor’s resolve to end sit-at-home disruptions, describing it as necessary to protect livelihoods and secure long-term prosperity.
He appealed to traders at the Onitsha Main Market and residents across the state to cooperate with authorities and market leaders in the collective interest of economic recovery.
“A stable and secure business environment will lead to growth, prosperity and better opportunities for our people,” he said.
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