Obutong Residents Link Calabar Landslide to Sea Deity as Engineers Begin Emergency Response

Residents of Obutong in Calabar, Cross River State, say a flood-triggered landslide has destroyed businesses, property and livelihoods. Some residents attribute the disaster to Anansa, a water deity in local traditional beliefs, and are calling for customary cleansing rites alongside engineering work. The community’s youth leader said the landslide, which began on Tuesday, remains active and has trapped containers and heavy vehicles near the damaged corridor. He appealed to the state and federal governments to provide an emergency access route and intervene on the affected federal road. The Commissioner for Environment said the incident is a natural disaster requiring urgent technical action. Engineers have recommended diverting floodwater to reduce pressure on the area, while residents have been warned against scavenging or moving items within the danger zone. An engineer at the site blamed poor maintenance, saying early warning signs had reportedly been noticed before the rains worsened the erosion. Trucks carrying boulders for remedial work were seen heading to the affected area.

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