Youth Group Urges Governor Okpebholo To Act on Erosion In Auchi Community

A youth group in Auchi, Edo State, has urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to pay immediate attention to the worsening erosion crisis affecting Iyekhei Quarters.

The group, under the name Auchi Dynamic Youth, Iyekhei Zone, raised concerns over what they described as the governor’s neglect of their community during his recent visits to erosion-affected areas in the region.

The group expressed frustration that Iyekhei Quarters was left out during the governor’s inspection of erosion sites, despite being one of the worst-hit areas in Auchi. They said the omission felt unfair, considering the visible damage to homes, roads, and public spaces, and the growing danger to residents’ safety.

They called on Governor Okpebholo to visit Iyekhei in person and witness the extent of the destruction. According to them, Iyekhei has consistently supported the All Progressives Congress and deserves the same level of concern and intervention shown to other quarters. They recalled how Iyekhei produced notable party figures in the past, including the late Alhaji Usman Shagadi, who played a key role in establishing APC’s presence in Etsako West and Edo North.

The group warned that failure to respond could deepen feelings of neglect and exclusion among the people, especially at a time when they are counting on the government to provide basic infrastructure and environmental protection.

In response to the concerns, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, denied claims of marginalisation. He assured that all communities facing real environmental challenges would be considered. He said the government is reviewing all such issues and would include them in the state’s development plans and budget.

Itua maintained that the administration is committed to serving every part of the state fairly, and that any community with legitimate problems would receive attention in due course.