Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has visited communities affected by the recent flood disaster in Calabar, expressing grief over the destruction caused by the incident and assuring residents that his administration will implement measures to prevent similar tragedies.
The governor’s visit followed the devastating flood and landslide that claimed at least five lives and caused widespread destruction across several parts of the Calabar metropolis.
Among those reported to have died were four children of Mr. and Mrs. Kingsley Edu, as well as a tanker driver identified as Mr. Udo.
The disaster also affected several communities, including Ikot Awatim, Ikot Ansa, Calabar South, Mbukpa, Big Qua Town, Ibom Layout and the 8 Miles axis.
Governor Otu toured some of the worst-hit areas on Sunday, where he met with affected residents and assessed the level of damage caused by the flooding.
Speaking during the visit, the governor described the incident as heartbreaking and said the scale of destruction had left him deeply saddened.
“Today, I visited victims of the recent flood disaster in Calabar, and my heart was deeply burdened by the magnitude of the devastation and the tragic loss of lives.
“No words can truly compensate for the precious lives we have lost, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to every family affected by this unfortunate tragedy,” he said.
Governor Otu assured residents that the state government would strengthen its disaster management strategies and adopt proactive measures to minimise the impact of future flooding.
According to him, the administration is committed to improving flood mitigation initiatives while enhancing emergency response systems across vulnerable communities.
“As a government, we remain committed to taking decisive and proactive measures to reduce the risk of such disasters and to strengthen our flood mitigation and emergency response systems,” he stated.
The governor disclosed that efforts were already underway to implement sustainable solutions aimed at addressing the recurring flooding challenges in the state.
He said the proposed interventions would include the construction and rehabilitation of drainage infrastructure as well as improved environmental management practices designed to reduce flood risks.
“While we cannot undo the pain of this moment, we can, and we will do everything within our power to prevent a recurrence,” Otu added.
He further encouraged affected residents not to lose hope, assuring them that the government would continue to provide support to families and communities impacted by the disaster.
“To every affected resident, please know that you are not alone. Your government stands with you and will continue to provide the necessary support as we work together to rebuild lives, restore hope, and implement responsible, long-term solutions,” he said.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with every family impacted. Together, we will overcome.”
The recent flood, triggered by days of heavy rainfall, inundated several neighbourhoods in Calabar, destroying homes, disrupting economic activities and displacing residents.
The incident has renewed concerns over flooding in the state, with many residents calling for improved drainage systems, stricter environmental regulations and better urban planning to reduce the impact of extreme weather events.
