Residents of Efut Efio-Ene Community in Cross River State have raised concerns over worsening flooding, saying the recurring disaster has destroyed homes, farmlands and livelihoods while forcing many families from their properties.
Residents of the Efut Efio-Ene Community in Calabar South Local Government Area have appealed for urgent government intervention following severe flooding that has destroyed homes, farmlands and critical infrastructure in the area.
Community leaders said the recurring flooding has become a perennial challenge, causing significant losses to residents and disrupting daily life.
According to them, the situation is linked to the discharge of floodwater collected from drainage channels across the Calabar metropolis into the community.
The disaster has reportedly rendered many families homeless, damaged property and exposed residents to increased health risks associated with stagnant and contaminated water.
Speaking on the situation, the Clan Head of the community, Muri Umo Ekpo II, described the flooding as a major threat to lives and livelihoods.
He said community roads had been severely damaged, making transportation and movement increasingly difficult for residents.
“We are facing serious flooding because much of the rainwater collected throughout Calabar and surrounding areas is channelled into our community,” he said.
Ekpo noted that the drainage system serving the area had not been desilted for many years and called for immediate intervention before the peak of the rainy season.
He urged the Cross River State Government and agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency to take urgent action to address the situation and prevent further damage.
Also speaking, Youth Leader Princewill Lawrence said residents now live in fear whenever rainfall begins, warning that heavier rains could trigger more devastating flooding in the coming weeks.
He called for technical assessments of affected areas and the construction of effective flood-control infrastructure, including improved drainage channels and stormwater management systems.
The Women Leader of the community, Obongawan Bassey, also appealed for swift government intervention to alleviate the suffering of affected families.
Responding to the concerns, Antigha Gill said relevant authorities were already aware of the problem.
Gill disclosed that the issue had been brought to the attention of the state government and that the Ministry of Environment had been directed to address the situation.
He added that the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency would collaborate with the Ministry of Environment and the Calabar Urban Development Authority to implement measures aimed at mitigating the flooding challenge.
Authorities say efforts are underway to address the problem as the rainy season intensifies across the state.
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