CALABAR– A torrential rainstorm accompanied by violent winds swept through Calabar, the Cross River State capital, on Wednesday leaving in its wake damaged homes, uprooted trees, and mounting frustration among residents over the impact of recurring climate-induced disasters NEGROIDHAVEN can report authoritatively.
Across Calabar South and other parts of the metropolis, residents woke up to scenes of destruction, including shattered rooftops, dislodged canopies, and weakened electric poles. The storm, which struck in the evening hours, was described as one of the most severe in recent memory.
On social media, residents expressed a mix of concern and sarcasm over the devastation. “Carpenters in Calabar South have just been inducted into the Odogwu Parara cartel,” one user quipped on Facebook, alluding to the booming demand for repairs following the windstorm. Another user lamented the storm’s force, noting that a hotel window shelter was blown off during a public engagement event.
But beyond the humour lies growing fear over the state of Calabar’s aging urban infrastructure—especially its trees. “The old trees currently lining our area have become dangerously weak and pose a serious risk,” one concerned citizen warned. “They are no longer just an eyesore—they are potential hazards waiting to cause serious harm.”
The call to replace the aged trees with economically beneficial alternatives like cocoa and coconut has sparked conversations about sustainable urban planning in the face of changing climate realities.
In response, NEGROIDHAVEN garnered that the Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses John Osogi via his social media timeline, issued a public statement extending sympathy to affected families and reiterating the government’s commitment to environmental safety. “The destruction of homes and properties is truly devastating. As we move deeper into the rainy season, I urge residents to stay vigilant,” he said.
The Commissioner advised against dumping waste in drainages and called on citizens to report hazardous trees to the Ministry for prompt removal. “Let us be proactive rather than reactive,” he added, assuring that the Ministry of Environment is working toward a cleaner, greener, and safer Cross River.
While official figures on the extent of damage are yet to be released, residents are already grappling with the aftermath, including disrupted electricity supply. One widely shared post asked sarcastically: “Considering the destruction from the rain and wind in Calabar, when do you think your area will have NEPA light?”
Some residents have observed that as Calabar braces for more rainy days, the incident should serve as a wake-up call on the urgent need for climate resilience, urban tree management, and infrastructure reinforcement.
