Residents of Ide Village in Ifite Quarters, Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, have raised the alarm over escalating gully erosion threatening their community, allegedly worsened by the felling of economic trees.
The community expressed concerns about the severe risks posed to their land and livelihoods.
A statement signed on Tuesday by Mr. Chukwudi Johnson, Chairman of Ide Aka Na-Ano Village, Alor, revealed that the erosion control channel constructed in 1983 had collapsed. He noted that a significant portion of the economic trees planted along the erosion site to prevent its expansion had been felled by suspected hoodlums.
The statement highlighted the environmental consequences of deforestation, including loss of biodiversity, increased soil erosion, disruption of the water cycle, and climate change.
According to Mr. Johnson, “The erosion channel constructed in 1983 has collapsed, and a substantial number of economically vital trees planted to contain the erosion have been cut down by hoodlums. This reckless act has intensified the erosion, transforming the once-stable landscape into a ticking time bomb. The villagers, who had invested time and resources into planting these trees, now face the daunting prospect of losing their homes, farmlands, and livelihoods.”
He added that cutting down trees in erosion-prone areas has far-reaching consequences.
Loss of Biodiversity: Trees provide habitats for various species, and their removal disrupts the ecosystem balance.
Soil Erosion: Tree roots stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and landslides. Without them, soil degradation accelerates.
Water Cycle Disruption: Trees regulate water cycles; deforestation can lead to flooding, droughts, and water scarcity.
Climate Change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, and their removal exacerbates global warming.
The Chairman alleged that one Mr. Ifenna Okafor is the leader of the hoodlums cutting down the economic trees.
Seeking urgent intervention, the community called on the Anambra State Ministry of Environment to prosecute those involved in what they described as an ecological crime. They also urged the state government to take decisive action to protect the environment, preserve biodiversity, and safeguard the well-being of citizens.
Community members emphasized the need for public education and active participation in environmental conservation efforts.
Barrister Kennedy Uche, legal counsel for Umuru-Ide Village Assembly, stated that felling trees in erosion-prone areas constitutes an ecological crime. He expressed hope that the law would take its due course.
In response, Mr. Okafor denied the allegations, claiming they were baseless and part of a conspiracy to tarnish his reputation. He stated that he had been contracted by the village Vice Chairman to clear fallen trees obstructing the flow of floodwater, which had worsened erosion and destroyed farmlands.
The Nnobi Police Station has been involved in the case, with further investigations underway. The matter is expected to be charged to court upon conclusion of inquiries.
