Persistent rainfall across parts of Cross River State, particularly in Calabar, has left many residents homeless, displaced families and destroyed property.
For nearly two weeks, heavy downpours have occurred almost daily, with rainfall in some areas beginning as early as 5:00 a.m., worsening flooding in low-lying communities.
Among those affected is the Cross River State Correspondent of The Telegraph, Clement James, who appealed for urgent assistance after floodwaters overwhelmed his home.
In Calabar South Local Government Area and communities including 8 Miles, Ikot Enebong, Ikot Nkebre and parts of Calabar Municipality, homes have been submerged, forcing residents to flee while household valuables and other property were destroyed.
Last week, flooding claimed several lives, including five children from the same family in the Ikot Anwatim ravine. Similar destruction was recorded in flood-prone communities such as Atimbo, where houses were inundated and roofs blown off by heavy storms.
Speaking on his ordeal, James said, “Today’s rain has completely overrun my house.”
He appealed to the state government and emergency agencies to intervene, saying floodwaters had engulfed his compound and home, destroying household belongings.
The persistent rainfall has also disrupted economic activities across the city. While many women continued to brave the early morning beach markets to support their families, several government offices recorded low attendance as civil servants were unable to report for duty due to flooded roads and inaccessible neighbourhoods.
Affected residents have appealed to the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for
