C’River governor visits flood victims, pledges support after disaster claims lives in Calabar

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has visited victims of the recent flood disaster in Calabar, describing the destruction and loss of lives as heartbreaking while assuring affected residents of government support and long-term measures to prevent future flooding.

The governor toured some of the worst-hit communities in the Calabar metropolis on Sunday following the flood and landslide that claimed at least five lives, including four children of Mr and Mrs Kingsley Edu and a tanker driver identified as Mr Udo.

The disaster affected several communities, including Ikot Awatim, Ikot Ansa, Calabar South, Mbukpa, Big Qua Town, Ibom Layout and 8 Miles, leaving homes destroyed and families displaced.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Otu said he was deeply saddened by the extent of the devastation.

“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.”

Government promises preventive measures

The governor assured residents that his administration would take decisive steps to reduce the risk of similar disasters in the future.

He said the state government was committed to strengthening flood mitigation strategies and 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,” Mr Otu said.

Focus on long-term solutions

According to the governor, the state is already pursuing sustainable measures, including the construction of improved drainage infrastructure and enhanced environmental management to protect communities from recurring floods.

“While we cannot undo the pain of this moment, we can, and we will do everything within our power to prevent a recurrence,” he stated.

Mr Otu urged residents affected by the disaster not to lose hope, assuring them that the government would continue providing assistance as efforts to rebuild affected communities progress.

“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,” the governor said.

He added that the thoughts and prayers of the government remained with every family affected by the tragedy.