CALABAR LANDSLIDES: THE LIVES OF OUR PEOPLE MUST COME BEFORE POLITICS.

I have carefully followed the disturbing reports of the devastating landslides and flooding currently ravaging several communities in Calabar, particularly along Anansa Road and other vulnerable areas. My heart goes out to every family that has lost homes, property, livelihoods, and the peace of mind that every citizen deserves.

I align myself with the concerns expressed by Professor Sandy Onoh regarding the urgent need for a more proactive and compassionate response to this unfolding humanitarian and environmental crisis. At a time when our people are living in fear, government must rise above public relations and demonstrate decisive leadership through practical intervention.

This is not the time for political grandstanding or blame games. It is a time for leadership, empathy, and immediate action. Every hour of delay increases the risk of further destruction and exposes more innocent citizens to danger.

I therefore call on the Cross River State Government to immediately intensify emergency response efforts by evacuating residents in high-risk areas, providing temporary shelter and relief materials to affected families, strengthening erosion control measures, clearing blocked drainage systems, and working closely with the Federal Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and other development partners to address this environmental emergency.

The recurring floods and landslides in Calabar are clear reminders that sustainable urban planning, environmental protection, and effective infrastructure maintenance can no longer be treated as secondary issues. We must adopt long-term solutions that will protect lives, preserve property, and secure the future of our communities.

As the Governorship Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), I reaffirm my commitment to a government that places the welfare, safety, and dignity of the people above every other consideration. Cross Riverians deserve responsive leadership that acts promptly in times of crisis and plans effectively to prevent future disasters.

To all affected families, please accept my deepest sympathies. We stand with you in this difficult moment and will continue to advocate for swift intervention, accountability, and lasting solutions.

Hon. John Upan Odey
Governorship Candidate National Democratic Congress (NDC).