Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has visited victims of the recent flood disaster in Calabar, describing the scale of destruction and loss of lives as heartbreaking, while assuring residents of government intervention to mitigate future occurrences.

At least five persons, including four children of Mr and Mrs Kingsley Edu and a tanker driver identified as Mr Udo, reportedly died in the flood and landslide that affected communities including Ikot Awatim, Ikot Ansa, Calabar South, Mbukpa, Big Qua Town, Ibom Layout and 8 Miles.

The governor, who toured some of the worst-hit communities in the Calabar metropolis on Sunday, said his heart was “deeply burdened by the magnitude of the devastation and the tragic loss of lives.”

He said, “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.”

Otu assured residents that the state government remained committed to taking decisive steps to reduce the risk of future disasters.

“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,” he said.

He added that the government was already working on sustainable, long-term solutions, including improved drainage infrastructure and better environmental management, to protect communities from future flooding.

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

The governor urged affected residents not to lose hope, assuring them that the government would continue to provide the necessary support as efforts to rebuild lives and restore normalcy continue.

“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.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with every family impacted. Together, we will overcome,” he added.