North Tongu Member of Parliament (MP) Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has expressed concerns about the delayed compensation for hundreds of victims affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage in Tongu.
He emphasized that these individuals have not received full compensation from the government even after 10 months.
Addressing Chiefs and Queen mothers of Tongu in Juapong, Mr. Ablakwa underscored the importance of upholding the fundamental human rights of the affected individuals. He noted that many residents are still living in temporary shelters, while farmers whose crops were destroyed and residents whose homes were inundated await adequate compensation.
Mr. Ablakwa disclosed that his office has obtained a letter from the Volta River Authority (VRA) indicating plans for a controlled spillage in the near future. He stressed the need for an emergency preparedness plan, alternative drainage solutions, and continued dialogue with local leaders and stakeholders to prevent a recurrence of last year’s devastating events.
Moreover, the MP mentioned that his legal team is compiling detailed information and verifying property losses to pursue rightful compensation from the VRA.
Additionally, he called on the government to prioritize the reconstruction of the Sayikope steel bridge, which collapsed on January 26, disrupting daily activities and endangering schoolchildren and pregnant women who rely on boats to cross to Adidome.