From Emma Elekwa, Awka
Action Alliance (AA) Candidate for Federal House of Representatives, Awka North & South Constituency, Hon Okoye Anthony Arinze has expressed worry over prevailing erosion menace ravaging communities in his constituency.
He regretted that the menace had wrecked havoc on roads, homes, farms, public facilities and livelihoods.
In a statement on Tuesday, Arinze promised to tackle the challenge through collaboration with village chairmen and community leaders if elected.
According to him, it would be folly to wait until the situation escalated before actions would be taken.
He argued that leadership is not about standing above the people; but working closely with the people and listening to their needs.
He said, “As I seek to represent the people of Awka North and South Constituency, I want to build a leadership structure where our village chairmen and community leaders have a direct voice and channel of communication with my office.
”Our village chairmen are closest to the people. They understand the challenges facing their communities and can provide timely information about issues that require government attention.
”One major challenge we must take seriously is erosion. Across our communities, erosion can damage roads, homes, farms, public facilities and livelihoods. We cannot wait until a serious situation develops before we act.
”That is why I will promote regular communication and cooperation with our village chairmen and community leaders.
”Through this partnership, we can receive early reports about erosion sites, identify communities that need urgent attention, document the challenges and push for appropriate government intervention.
”My vision is simple: let government hear the people through the people who are closest to them.
”Together with our village chairmen, traditional and community leaders, youth and other stakeholders, we can build a constituency where problems are reported early, communities are heard, and development reaches the grassroots.”