Tragedy in Cross River: Four children, one adult killed as landslides bury homes

By Njoku Christian

Five persons, including four children, have lost their lives after landslides triggered by 48 hours of torrential rainfall devastated Ikot Anwatim Community in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State.

The disaster also left two residents injured and destroyed two houses, according to the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA).

CR-SEMA confirmed the casualties on Saturday during a rapid damage assessment of the affected community conducted in collaboration with officials of the Disaster Management Unit of the Nigerian Red Cross Society.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, leading the assessment team, the Director-General of CR-SEMA, Efa Nyong, described the tragedy as heartbreaking, particularly the deaths of the four children, and conveyed the condolences of the Cross River State Government to the bereaved families.

He assured victims that the government would provide humanitarian support while undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the disaster to guide emergency response and long-term interventions.

“This assessment will document the extent of the disaster and provide the information needed to support government decisions on emergency assistance and long-term disaster risk reduction,” Nyong said.

He urged residents of communities vulnerable to landslides and erosion to remain vigilant, promptly report signs such as land cracks and comply with evacuation directives issued by relevant authorities.

Nyong warned that climate-related disasters were becoming increasingly frequent, stressing the need for greater public awareness and stronger collaboration between communities and government agencies to minimise risks.

He added that the rapid assessment reflected CR-SEMA’s commitment to proactive disaster management, coordinated emergency response and the protection of lives and property across the state.

Following the inspection, the assessment team recommended the immediate provision of humanitarian relief for affected families and continued medical care for those injured in the incident.

The team also called for a comprehensive geotechnical investigation of the affected area to determine its long-term stability and identify appropriate mitigation measures.

It further recommended intensified public awareness campaigns on landslide risks and the possible relocation of residents living in high-risk areas as heavy rainfall continues across the state.

One of the affected residents, Bassey Patrick, commended the emergency response team for its prompt intervention despite the challenging conditions.

He appealed for urgent government assistance, saying many families had lost loved ones, homes and means of livelihood and would require substantial support to rebuild their lives.