Joseph Ikpea Unveils Multi-Layered Plan to Combat Erosion in Edo Central

Senator Ikpea Media Team

Senator Joseph Ikpea, who represents Edo Central Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly, has announced a renewed and structured push to confront the persistent gully erosion threatening communities across the district.

Addressing journalists during a media engagement on Thursday, the lawmaker described the ecological crisis as an urgent environmental and humanitarian concern that demands coordinated legislative and institutional intervention. He noted that the fragile terrain of Edo Central has made many communities increasingly susceptible to land degradation, especially during peak rainfall periods.

Ikpea disclosed that he is preparing to formally table a motion before the Senate aimed at drawing heightened federal attention to the ecological challenges in the district. According to him, the initiative is designed not merely as a routine legislative exercise but as part of a broader strategy to secure concrete federal action.

Reflecting on earlier interventions that did not achieve the desired outcomes, the senator emphasized continuity rather than reinvention. He explained that current efforts are structured to consolidate past groundwork while addressing gaps that previously hindered implementation.

Beyond legislative proceedings, Ikpea revealed that he has initiated direct consultations with key federal institutions responsible for environmental management and disaster mitigation. He said he has personally engaged relevant agencies, presenting detailed accounts of the erosion impact on affected communities and advocating for prompt intervention.

The senator outlined a three-pronged approach comprising formal Senate backing to unlock federal resources, strategic collaboration with environmental and ecological bodies, and consistent follow-up mechanisms to ensure that approved measures translate into visible results on the ground.

Expressing optimism about the disposition of the 10th National Assembly, Ikpea stated that the current Senate leadership has demonstrated openness to constituency-driven initiatives, particularly those addressing pressing socio-environmental concerns.

He warned that unchecked erosion poses far-reaching consequences, including displacement of residents, destruction of infrastructure, and long-term socio-economic setbacks. According to him, proactive intervention is essential to safeguard both lives and development investments in the region.

Ikpea also acknowledged ongoing infrastructural initiatives by the Edo State Government, noting that synergy between federal and state authorities would be critical to delivering durable solutions.

Residents of Edo Central have repeatedly appealed for sustained federal support to curb the rapid expansion of gullies that continue to encroach on homes, farmlands, and public facilities. With the proposed legislative action and institutional engagements underway, stakeholders are hopeful that renewed attention at the national level will translate into lasting environmental remediation efforts.