PFN Chairman Urges Cross River Residents to Address Disasters Through Environmental Awareness

In a recent statement, Apostle Trinity Ogar, the Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Cross River State, has urged residents to stop attributing the recent series of disasters—including floods, landslides, and a fire outbreak—to spiritual causes. Instead, he advocates for a perspective focused on environmental factors and the importance of effective early warning systems.

Ogar's comments come on the heels of a tragic series of events in the state, which have led to multiple fatalities and significant property damage. The fire at the Spar Shopping Mall in Calabar and the devastating landslides on Anansa Road and Ikot Awatim, the latter of which claimed four lives, have sparked a wave of speculation among locals. Some residents have pointed fingers at the Efik marine deity, Anansa, believing these disasters to be manifestations of displeasure from traditional spirits.

In response to inquiries from journalists, Ogar emphasized that attributing such incidents to spiritual forces diverts attention from the real issues at hand. “We should be looking at the environmental and infrastructural challenges that lead to these disasters,” he stated. He urged the community to work collaboratively with government agencies to implement preventive measures rather than relying on traditional beliefs.

While some residents have called for engagement with the Efik traditional institution to seek traditional remedies, Ogar contends that such approaches could prove ineffective. He highlighted the need for a more scientific and proactive approach to disaster management, underscoring the role of government in addressing the underlying causes of these calamities.

As discussions continue within the community, Ogar's call for rationality and environmental awareness serves as a reminder that the solutions to these pressing issues lie in understanding our surroundings and taking actionable steps to mitigate risks.