C’River Govt Identifies Flood Victims, List Affected Communities

CALABAR – The Cross River State Government has identified several communities affected by the recent landslide and flooding in the Calabar metropolis, confirming loss of lives and widespread destruction of homes and property while assuring victims of immediate relief and long-term flood control measures.

In a press statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, the government listed Ikot Awatim, Ikot Ansa, Calabar South, Mbukpa, Big Qua Town, Ibom Layout and 8 Miles among the communities impacted by the disaster.

The statement said the incidents caused “massive destruction of homes, fences and other properties,” while also claiming the lives of several residents, including four children of Mr. and Mrs. Kingsley Etim Edu and a tanker driver identified as Mr. Udo.

“The Government of Cross River State has expressed profound condolences and sympathy to all residents and families affected by the recent landslide and flood disasters that ravaged parts of the Calabar Metropolis,” the statement read.

According to the government, the deaths and destruction have brought immense grief to the affected communities, prompting an immediate response from the state authorities.

Governor Bassey Otu, through the statement, expressed deep regret over the tragedy and assured victims that the government would stand with them during the difficult period.

“His Excellency… deeply regrets the pain and hardship caused by this natural disaster and assures all affected citizens that the Government stands firmly with them at this critical time,” Ekpang said on behalf of the governor.

The government also extended condolences to families who lost loved ones during the flooding and landslide, describing the incident as an unfortunate tragedy that has saddened the state.

Beyond expressing sympathy, the government said immediate steps were being taken to provide relief materials, temporary shelter and other forms of assistance to affected residents.

It added that comprehensive assessments were ongoing to determine the full extent of damage across the affected communities before further intervention measures are implemented.

The statement further reaffirmed the state’s commitment to long-term flood control, saying efforts would include improved drainage systems and environmental management strategies aimed at preventing future disasters.

The government urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with emergency response teams working to restore normalcy in the affected parts of the Calabar metropolis.

“We urge residents to remain calm and cooperate with relevant emergency response teams as efforts continue to restore normalcy in and around affected areas in the Calabar Metropolis,” the statement said.

The Commissioner expressed optimism that the state would overcome the disaster, assuring residents that government would continue supporting victims while rebuilding affected communities.