The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has confirmed the flood disaster that has affected at least five local governments in Cross River.
SEMA Director General Mr. Princewill Ayim confirmed the disaster and listed the councils as Obubra, Abi, Ikom, Etung and Ogoja.
He said officials of the agency are out for assessment, adding that the affected communities and individuals have been advised to group themselves and have record of the impact on them and possible estimate of cost.
The Nation learnt that over 22 communities in Obubra Local Government were the most affected by what the SEMA DG described as coastal flood and flash flood.
Eyewitnesses said multi-million naira worth of property at Obubra were submerged, including houses and farmlands.
Some of the communities identified include Ijeghe, Orangha and Igo villages in Osopong community. Others are Araragha, Okokoma and Fumbongha /Yala axis as well as riverine communities of Obubra urban such as Ofatura, Ahaha Adun beach, among others.
A community leader of Ogurude in Osopong area of Obubra, Mr. Cornelius Okpa, told The Nation that the loss and damage of crops had rendered farmers and residents bankrupt.
Okpa, a farmer in the value chains of rice, yam and cassava, urged relevant agencies of the federal and state governments to assist the victims.
Another leader in the area, Moses Onoh, a former majority leader in the House of Assembly, expressed worry about the consequences of the disaster.