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.

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The Cross River State Government has launched a series of projects and policy reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening public service delivery.

Represented by Deputy Governor Peter Okey, Governor Otu performed the groundbreaking for 1,000 housing units under the People First Housing Scheme at Ikot Efiokon Etim in Akpabuyo Local Government Area. The project is designed to address housing challenges faced by civil servants and improve their living conditions.

At the New Secretariat Complex in Calabar, the administration also flagged off the construction of a Civil Service Staff Club and Event Centre, expected to serve as a hub for recreation, networking, and engagement among public servants.

In a parallel development, the government unveiled the Cross River State Civil Service Manual and an official Civil Service Song at the State Library Complex. Officials say the manual will guide operations and discipline within the service, while the song is intended to strengthen unity and institutional identity.

Speaking during the events, Governor Otu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising workers’ welfare and enhancing professionalism in governance. He noted that the combined focus on infrastructure and policy reform reflects a broader strategy to reposition the public service for improved performance.

He also urged civil servants to align with ongoing reforms by upgrading their skills and adapting to evolving service demands.

The programme featured a symposium on public sector transformation, with contributions from stakeholders including Winifred Oyo Ita, who emphasised innovation, integrity, and capacity development as pillars of a modern civil service. A book review session was delivered by Justice Ofem I. Ofem.

Head of Service, Orok Bassey Okon, described the initiatives as strategic steps toward building a more efficient and motivated workforce, expressing confidence in their long-term impact.

The day’s activities also included the Cross River Youth Unity and Assessment Programme, themed “Building Tomorrow Today: Youth Unity, Accountability and Representation,” where the governor encouraged young people to actively participate in governance.

Other top officials in attendance included Secretary to the State Government, Anthony Owan Enoh, alongside permanent secretaries, directors, and civil servants.

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