Residents of Efut Efio-Ene community in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State have appealed to the government for urgent intervention over persistent flooding that has devastated homes, damaged infrastructure and threatened lives in the area.
The community attributed the recurring flood incidents to an open drainage channel that directs stormwater from different parts of Calabar metropolis into the area, resulting in widespread destruction of residential properties, access roads and public infrastructure.
Speaking in Calabar, the Clan Head of Efut Efio-Ene, His Royal Highness Muri Ekong Umo Ekpo II, described the situation as alarming, noting that residents have continued to suffer significant losses due to the flooding.
According to him, the floodwaters have destroyed household items and personal belongings, contaminated drinking water sources, increased health risks and disrupted movement within the community.
“We are facing serious challenges because all the water channelled from different parts of Calabar flows directly into our community. The flooding has destroyed houses and properties, contaminated our water sources and exposed residents to various health hazards,” the monarch said.
The traditional ruler disclosed that the drainage system serving the area had not been properly cleared since the administration of former Governor Donald Duke, urging authorities to immediately desilt the drains before the peak of the rainy season.
He called on the federal and state governments, as well as emergency response agencies, to urgently intervene to prevent further destruction and possible loss of lives.
The Youth Leader of the community, Princewill Lawrence, warned that residents now live in fear as heavy rainfall could trigger more severe flooding, structural collapse and widespread damage to livelihoods.
“Residents are worried that increased rainfall in the coming weeks could lead to catastrophic flooding, destruction of property, collapse of weak structures and loss of lives,” he said.
Lawrence appealed for a comprehensive technical assessment of the affected areas and the implementation of sustainable flood-control measures, including proper drainage channels, retention systems and stormwater management infrastructure.
Also speaking, the Women Leader of the community, Obongawan Nanke Bassey, urged government authorities to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of residents before the situation worsens.
Reacting to the concerns, the Director-General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, Antigha Gill, said the government was aware of the problem and had already drawn the attention of relevant authorities to the situation.
Gill explained that the agency had previously communicated the matter to the state government, which subsequently directed the Ministry of Environment to take necessary action.
He added that the agency had received several letters from the community requesting intervention and assured residents that efforts were underway in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Calabar Urban Development Authority to address the flooding challenge.
The appeal comes as communities across Cross River State face increasing concerns over flooding risks during the peak rainy season, with residents calling for improved drainage infrastructure and proactive environmental management measures.
