Cross Assembly Seeks Declaration Of Emergency On Erosion Sites In Cross River State

By Mary Bassey, House of Assembly Correspondent 

The Cross River State 10th House of Assembly has called on the State government to declare a state of emergency on erosion sites in the state.

The House seeks the state government, through the Ministry of Works and other relevant agencies to conduct an immediate assessment of affected areas, embark on emergency remedial works to salvage erosion sites, as well as develop and implement long-term strategies to prevent future occurrences.

The resolutions were adopted following a motion calling on the government and the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management  Program (NEWMAP) to salvage erosion sites in Calabar Municipality sponsored by the member representing Calabar Municipality, Hon. Stanley Bassey Nsemo.

Nsemo noted that erosion has become a recurring and devastating issue in the state causing loss of lives, property and livelihoods.

Stanley said the recent heavy rainfall has exacerbated the situation, leaving many communities like Ikot Effanga, Ikot Enobong, Akai Efa, Summit Hills Estate and Nyahasang vulnerable and displaced. He lamented that erosion has washed away many important properties including houses, graves, farm lands amongst others.

The Lawmaker sued for swift and decisive action to be taken to address the erosion problem to facilitate the protection and preservation of the State’s environment and well being of its citizens.

He thanked the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem and Members for their contributions towards the recovery of the erosion site at Nasarawa community while commending Governor Bassey Otu for his efforts in addressing the welfare of citizens.

The House members observed that the situation required urgent remedial action to forestall further loss of lives and property.

They reiterated that Calabar Municipality was the capital of the State and Governor Otu’s led “People First” Government should address the erosion problem in order to ensure the protection and preservation of the state’s environment and the well-being of its citizens.