The Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District, Senator Nwachukwu Emmanuel, has raised the alarm over worsening erosion, collapsing infrastructure and deteriorating federal roads, warned that the zone faces a looming transportation and humanitarian crisis without urgent federal intervention.
Speaking with journalists after plenary, the lawmaker said his first motion on the floor of the Senate was informed by the growing devastation caused by erosion and prolonged neglect of key transport corridors across the district.
He described Anambra South as the epicentre of erosion menace in Nigeria, noting that several communities and major highways are under severe threat.
According to him, one of the most dangerous sites is along the Okija Spur-Ihembosi-Ukpor-Ebenator-Ezinifite Road, where one side of the dual carriageway has collapsed, with erosion advancing rapidly toward the remaining lane.
“This highway is no longer an Anambra road alone. It connects Imo, Abia, Rivers and other neighbouring states. If it is cut off, the implications will be catastrophic,” he warned.
The Senator also drew attention to the Oba–Nnewi–Amichi–Uga road, which he said has remained in serious 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 are still under construction has cut off several communities, disrupted trade and limited access to healthcare and education.
“These are real human challenges affecting traders, students, patients and entire communities,” he said.
Senator Nwachukwu explained that although the motion appeared on the Senate Order Paper since November 2025, legislative schedules delayed its consideration.
He said he was encouraged by the support of his colleagues and the directive of the Senate President to the Committee on Works to urgently intervene.
The Senator revealed that the Senate Committee on Works would conduct an on-the-spot inspection of the affected roads within two weeks to compel immediate action by the Federal Ministry of Works.
On the recent closure of the Onitsha Main Market, he called for calm and collective responsibility, noting that while May 30 remained a solemn remembrance in Igboland, prolonged sit-at-home orders have severely damaged the South-East economy.
“Our region contributes less than eight per cent to Nigeria’s GDP. By shutting down every Monday, we are shrinking our economy further,” he said.
He added that the development had forced banks and corporate institutions to reduce operations, discouraged investment and weakened commercial activities.
The Senator also commended Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for strengthening security and restoring confidence through the Agụnechemba Security Network and other reforms.
“Governor Soludo understands that no economy can grow under fear and uncertainty. His administration has constructed over 750 kilometres of roads and restored confidence in Anambra,” he noted.
He expressed support for the governor’s resolve to end sit-at-home disruptions, describing it as necessary for economic growth and stability.
Appealing to traders and residents, Senator Nwachukwu urged them to cooperate with authorities and market leaders in rebuilding the state’s economy.
He stressed that peace, unity and security remain essential for sustainable development in Anambra State.
