Following a strong windstorm that tore through parts of Calabar on Wednesday evening, causing serious damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles, particularly around the Calabar Metropolis, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has called for urgent action to prevent future disasters.
During Thursday’s sitting at the Assembly, Speaker Ayambem expressed deep concern over the damage caused by falling trees and said the incident could have easily led to loss of life.
“What happened yesterday could have easily claimed lives. We must not take this lightly,” he told fellow lawmakers.
He pointed out that, by coincidence, the Assembly had only just passed a motion earlier that day urging the Ministry of Environment and other relevant agencies to identify and remove old and dangerous trees, especially in crowded areas. He described the timing of the motion as “prophetic.”
“The storm shows how important and urgent this issue is,” he said. “We need the Ministry to act quickly to protect people and property.”
Ayambem called on the Ministry to start removing risky trees and replace them with safer, environmentally friendly ones suited for cities. He also stressed that the Assembly’s work goes beyond passing laws it’s about making sure those laws lead to real action.
“We won’t just sit and watch while our people are exposed to dangers that can be avoided,” he said.
Matthew Okache, anipr
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker
08/05/2025
