Severe flooding in Borno has displaced numerous residents and led to the escape of inmates, as the region grapples with the widespread destruction and urgent need for relief efforts.
Floodwaters have submerged major roads, houses, and shops in Maiduguri metropolis – the capital of Borno State as well as certain areas within Jere Local Government Area.
Floods submerged various public infrastructures, such as the Shehu’s Palace, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo.
During a flood, the prison wall situated in the Custom area was breached. According to reports, some prisoners drowned while others fled for their safety.
The Post-Office Roundabout, which connects key areas within the state capital along with other major roads, is currently submerged in water. As a result of this flood situation, transport operations have come to a halt across the city limits.
The communities impacted by the flood include Abbaganaram, Custom Road where the flooded prison is situated, Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market Custom Area, Cattle Market in old Maiduguri and Gwange area as well as Lagos Street.
Sanda Kyarimi Zoo Park, also known as Maiduguri Zoo, has been inundated. Ali Abatcha, the zoo’s General Manager reported that 80% of its animal residents have perished in the flooding while some others fled into the city center.
The vast majority of those who have been forced to relocate are women and children living in areas susceptible to flooding, including individuals residing along waterways. These displacements affect thousands of people.
The flood has also impacted various shop owners and small businesses.
Thousands of women and children, accompanied by their belongings, are relocating to safer areas within Maiduguri while touring.
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At the major roads, numerous individuals can be observed seeking shelter under trees.
Multiple sources attribute the flooding in Maiduguri to a leak from Alo Dam, which is a primary source of water supply for the area. This year’s heavy rainfall has also contributed to the situation. The dam draws its waters from River Ngadda in Cameroon and Lake Chad.
Relief is provided by FG.
The flood victims in parts of Maiduguri will receive assistance from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) upon orders given by President Bola Tinubu.
Expressing profound worry over the flooding, Tinubu conveyed his sentiments through a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Tuesday.
Tinubu expressed his sincere sympathies to the state government, citizens and particularly those affected by the misfortune of Alo Dam’s overflowing which led to loss of lives and sources of income.
The evacuation of individuals from affected regions was urgently urged by the President.
He gave an assurance to Governor Babagana Zulum that the Federal Government is prepared to work together in addressing the pressing humanitarian requirements of those impacted.
During this challenging period, the President reiterated his dedication to utilizing federal resources in aiding the state.
