Heavy flood and erosion have caused serious damage to the Cross River State House of Assembly Residential Quarters in Ekorinim, Calabar.
The flood has pulled down part of the perimeter fence protecting the residential quarters, while a nearby duplex and a hospital structure have also reportedly been destroyed by the force of the flood and erosion.
The matter was raised on the floor of the Cross River State House of Assembly during a Matter of Urgent Public Importance by the member representing Akamkpa II State Constituency, Hon. Linus Bassey.
Bassey told lawmakers that the erosion control system around the Assembly Residential Quarters and the Assembly Office Complex had collapsed, leaving buildings and residents at serious risk.
According to him, the residential quarters, which was built in 1977, is now facing serious danger as erosion continues to eat up the area.
He said members, their families and staff now live in fear whenever there is heavy rainfall because of the worsening situation.
The lawmaker also pointed to a growing ravine around the quarters, warning that the situation could put more buildings in danger if urgent action is not taken.
Another major concern is the gutter at the entrance of the Assembly Office Complex, where erosion has created a deep gully underneath the road.
He warned that the road could collapse if nothing is done quickly.
After the Assembly sitting, lawmakers went on an inspection visit to some erosion and landslide locations in Calabar, including Anansa Road and Ekorinim.
Speaking during the visit, the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Francis Bassey Asuquo, said what started as a small path had now developed into a large gully that was expanding.
He warned that the erosion could become more destructive if urgent steps were not taken.
The Commissioner for Works, Engr. Pius Edet, who joined the lawmakers during the inspection, also expressed concern over the situation.
He said erosion and landslides had become a recurring problem in Calabar because of the heavy rainfall being experienced in the city.
The commissioner disclosed that about 75 erosion sites had been identified across Calabar metropolis.
He assured that the state government would take steps to address the affected areas.
Residents of affected communities are expected to continue watching the erosion sites closely, especially during heavy rainfall, as the government works on possible solutions.
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