…laments devastating effect of menace, assures victims of govt support
Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, Thursday paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to areas devastated by gully erosion in the Jattu community and environs in Etsako West Local Government Area of the State.
Shaibu was accompanied on the visit by the Vice Chairman of Etsako West, Hon Benjamin Ojeto, Parish Priest of St. Philip-Neri Catholic Church and Rector of St Philip Nursery/Primary and Secondary School, Jattu, Rev Fr Jude Amune, Rev. Fr David John Oshioke, as well as the Councillor representing ward eleven, Etsako West, Hon Okwilegue Omoruaye Valentine and affected victims of the gully erosion menace.
Speaking with newsmen during the visit, the Deputy Governor appealed to the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency, come to the aid of the community to avoid further destruction of livelihoods and properties of citizens.
He also appealed to the people in the area not to “engage in activities that will worsen the already deplorable situation”.
Shaibu expressed his heartfelt sympathy on behalf of the Edo State Government to the people, while promising to put up a comprehensive report of the assessment to his principal and elder brother, Governor Godwin Obaseki, for immediate relief intervention to cushion the effects of the menace.
The Deputy Governor and his team also inspected other erosion sites around the area, starting from Saint Philip Cemetery to the axis where at least,100 houses were swept away by the devastating erosion menace that ravaged the community.
He commiserated with the people whose houses were submerged and described the situation as very sad.
The Edo State number two citizen assured that “the State and Federal Government will do everything within their reach to bring succour to the people”.
Shaibu also assured of his support in providing relief materials and funds to the affected victims.