Imo Residents Demand Action on Otamiri River Dredging

Residents of Iriamogu Village, part of the Dindi-Ihiagwa Autonomous Community in Owerri West LGA, Imo State, have expressed urgent concerns regarding ongoing dredging activities along the Otamiri River. They allege that these activities are causing significant environmental damage, including land loss, road degradation, destruction of farmlands, and property damage.

Mr. Joseph Oforegbu, president general of the Iriamogu Development Union, emphasized the community's worries about the advancing erosion threatening critical electricity infrastructure. He appealed to Governor Hope Uzodinma and relevant authorities for immediate intervention to prevent further deterioration.

The deputy president general, Mr. Chukwunonyerem Mbawuike, mentioned that previous attempts to engage the dredging operators had failed, prompting the community to consider escalating their concerns to the Government House in Owerri. Additionally, he called for an independent assessment of the dredging operations and the company's operating license.

Youth leader Mr. Ugochukwu Aharamwa noted that the destruction caused by dredging has heightened anxiety among residents, particularly regarding the stability of the riverbank.