Residents of Efut Efio Ene Community in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State have raised alarm over worsening flooding and erosion, warning that the environmental crisis is threatening lives, homes, and sources of livelihood in the coastal settlement.
Community members say persistent flooding, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall, has left many households vulnerable, while advancing erosion continues to destroy property and weaken critical infrastructure. The situation has reportedly heightened fears among residents, many of whom worry that parts of the community could become uninhabitable if urgent intervention is not provided.
Speaking on the development, residents described how floodwaters frequently inundate homes and roads, disrupting daily activities and forcing families to contend with difficult living conditions. They said the problem has worsened in recent years, with drainage challenges and coastal erosion compounding the impact of seasonal rains.
Some community leaders expressed concern that continued flooding could trigger health challenges, displace residents, and undermine economic activities in the area. Fishing, petty trading, and other local businesses have reportedly been affected as recurring floods damage property and restrict movement within the community.
Residents also appealed to the Cross River State Government, the Federal Government, and relevant environmental agencies to implement sustainable flood-control and erosion-management measures. They called for the construction and rehabilitation of drainage infrastructure, shoreline protection projects, and other interventions aimed at safeguarding the community.
The concerns come amid growing warnings from environmental experts about the increasing threat of flooding in coastal and riverine communities across Nigeria. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have repeatedly cautioned that several states, including Cross River, remain vulnerable to flooding during the rainy season due to climate-related factors, rising water levels, and inadequate drainage systems.
Cross River State has experienced recurrent flooding and erosion challenges in recent years, particularly in communities located along the coastline and low-lying areas. Environmental stakeholders have urged authorities to adopt long-term mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of extreme weather events and protect vulnerable populations.
As residents of Efut Efio Ene continue to grapple with the worsening conditions, many say immediate government intervention is needed to prevent further destruction and provide relief to affected families.
