The Anambra State House of Assembly has called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to declare an emergency Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Programme for communities severely affected by insecurity across the state.
The lawmakers said the initiative would focus on rebuilding critical infrastructure, restoring educational and healthcare services, revitalizing economic activities, facilitating the return of displaced residents, and accelerating healing and development in the affected areas.
The call followed a motion moved during Tuesday’s plenary by the member representing Ihiala II Constituency, Hon. Golden Iloh.
Leading the debate, Hon. Iloh noted that several communities in Ihiala, Ogbaru, Orumba South, Nnewi South, Awka North, Aguata, Ayamelum, and Orumba North Local Government Areas suffered extensive destruction of public infrastructure, disruption of education and healthcare services, displacement of residents, and economic setbacks as a result of insecurity.
He observed that the proactive security measures and strong political will demonstrated by Governor Soludo’s administration have largely restored peace and normalcy in many of the affected communities.
However, Hon. Iloh expressed concern that numerous schools, hospitals, maternity centres, roads, and other public facilities remain damaged or non-functional, thereby hindering the full restoration of normal life and sustainable development.
Supporting the motion, lawmakers including Barrister Ebuka Igwe (Idemili South), Hon. Nonso Atuchukwu (Nnewi South), Engr. Emma Nwafor (Orumba South), Majority Leader Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme (Ekwusigo), Chief Whip, Hon. Jude Ngobili (Ihiala one), and Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke (Aguata one) stressed the need for government intervention, noting that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.
They argued that the reconstruction programme would give affected communities a renewed sense of belonging and encourage displaced residents to return and rebuild their lives.
The lawmakers also recommended comprehensive oversight and assessment of damaged infrastructure, as well as collaboration with security agencies to provide detailed reports that would guide rehabilitation efforts.
According to them, while some of the affected communities had become deserted during the height of insecurity, normal life is gradually returning as peace continues to improve.
Presiding over the session, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, commended Hon. Iloh for sponsoring the motion and described the proposal as timely.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that the House subsequently adjourned plenary and is expected to reconvene on Thursday, June 25.
