Governor Otu visits family of toddler who died in flood, orders relocation for victims

Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu visited flood-affected communities in Calabar on Monday. He also met the family of a toddler who died due to the flood.

This visit came after four days of heavy rainfall in Calabar. The rain caused severe flooding and damaged many properties.

Governor Otu checked the affected areas with Efa Nyong, the Director-General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA). The Governor was accompanied by government officials, engineers, and representatives from the Nigerian Red Cross Society among others.

The areas they visited included Elijah Henshaw Street, Webber Street, Atu Street, Ibesikpo Street, and Mayne Avenue by Atakpa. These places are in the Calabar Municipality and Calabar South area councils.

During the visit, Mr Otu spoke with residents and business owners in the damaged areas. He expressed his condolences to the family that lost their child in the flood. He assured the residents that his government would support them during this tough time. He emphasized that their welfare is important to his "People’s First" agenda.

The Governor announced that the evacuation of residents from affected areas would start right away. This is part of the government's emergency response plan.

"There will also be thorough assessments of all affected locations to make sure relief materials get to the real victims without delay," Mr Otu said.

Earlier, CR-SEMA Director-General Mr Nyong confirmed that the agency has been active in the affected communities, carrying out assessments. He said they are working with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross Society, security agencies, and other ministries to document losses and find out what victims need immediately.

Mr Nyong assured the residents that the agency will continue emergency response efforts. He also said they will increase public awareness on flood preparedness and disaster risk reduction.