9th October 2025
The Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has assured the Ogidi people in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state of government intervention in the flood issue that has plagued the community.
The governor, who was received by the community leaders, led by the Traditional Ruler, Igwe Alex Onyido, gave the assurance on a visit to the flooded areas of the Ogidi community on Wednesday.
The downpour that started in the early hours also caused heavy flooding on major roads and shops in the area, bringing both commercial and economic activities to a standstill and also trapping motorists and other road users who remained indoors.
Flood waters at the “artificial Lake” at Ukwuorji along Old Road, Ogidi, reached their brim, and many houses and farmlands located in flood-prone communities of Ogbaru LGA were also submerged.
Soludo, while addressing the people, attributed the severe flooding to the improper termination of the drainage system, stating that previous administrations had left much to be desired.
He said, “Because government is a continuum, we will take it up to solve the issue through a collaborative approach to governance.
“The government is making progress in nearby areas. The work in Owelle Aja, Obosi, is currently 70 to 80 per cent complete; similar efforts are in Inland Doors and Nkpor.
“Flooding is one of the greatest existential threats the state faces. We expressed satisfaction with the Ogidi community’s initiative to enforce the establishment of catchment pits in their compounds as a necessary remedial measure.”
He, however, acknowledged the shortcomings of the contractor who was previously responsible for the drainage work, adding, “I must admit that the contractor did a poor job. To properly address the flooding issue, approximately eight kilometres of drainage needs to be constructed”.
The governor was subsequently received at an endorsement rally by the Community, where they presented him with a cheque of fifty million naira as part of their support for his campaign.
Soludo also took the opportunity to address the broader problem of gully erosion across Anambra State, noting that it is a long-standing issue that would require time and resources to tackle effectively.
These environmental issues have taken decades to grow, and the people of Anambra must understand that it is a gradual journey. Everyone has a role in addressing the challenges—not just the government.
“I expressed deep appreciation for the literary legacy of Chinụa Achebe, who hailed from Ogidi, honouring him as a beacon of culture and intellect.
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