Akai Effa Clan Head Seeks Urgent Federal Help Over Erosion

The Clan Head of Akai Effa in Calabar Municipality, Henrietta Effa-Akpere, has called for urgent government intervention, warning that erosion is threatening her community and could displace more residents.

 

Effa-Akpere spoke on Tuesday after leading community elders on an inspection of two major erosion sites in Akai Effa.

 

According to the clan head, the erosion began about five years ago and has continued to ravage the community despite repeated reports to the relevant intervention agencies.

 

"We have been reporting this challenge to different interventionist bodies, it is however sad that nothing has been done to support us," she said.

 

She warned that the problem was worsening and could force more residents out of their homes unless serious action was taken.

 

Effa-Akpere said flooding from the gullies had destroyed fish and poultry farms, as well as other investments in the community.

 

She said residents living along the erosion corridors had been displaced, with some left without food or shelter.

 

"As I speak, a lot of the victims have nothing to eat, they don't have anywhere to stay because their homes have been affected," she said.

 

The clan head urged the Federal Government to step in urgently to save the community from further destruction and hardship.

 

She also called on Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River to seek support from public and private sector stakeholders in the interest of the people.

 

"The Federal Government should join hands with the state government to rescue the people from the ravages of erosion.

 

"If it continues this way, and if the rain continues to fall, the residents may face stronger hardships," she said.