Cross River flood warning has intensified after Bassey Otu appealed to the Federal Government for urgent intervention over recurring floods affecting communities across Cross River State.

According to Channels Television, the governor said annual flooding has become a major ecological threat, warning that the damage now extends beyond homes and farms to broader environmental risks.

Otu spoke during a visit by National Emergency Management Agency Director-General Zubaida Umar and a delegation involved in the 2026 National Flood Preparedness and Awareness Campaign.

He said several projects originally designed to reduce flooding in the state, including drainage systems and water diversion channels, were left incomplete, worsening the situation for vulnerable communities.

“Flooding has continued to confront our state year after year, and it is already common knowledge that Cross River remains one of the high-risk states in the country,” Otu said.

The governor added that planned dam and drainage infrastructure had not been fully delivered, despite earlier engagements with relevant authorities dating back to 2019.

NEMA confirmed that Cross River is among states expected to face severe flooding in 2026, with high-risk local government areas listed as Abi, Akamkpa, Calabar Municipality, Calabar South, Etung, Ikom, Odukpani, Obubra and Obanliku.

Umar said the agency had deployed technical teams to vulnerable communities and was working with traditional rulers, religious leaders and emergency responders to improve awareness and preparedness ahead of the peak flood season.

She noted that while flooding may not be entirely prevented, early warning systems and stronger coordination can reduce losses to lives and livelihoods.