The Federal Government has initiated the evacuation of residents from communities affected by severe flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State.
According to a statement from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Tuesday, efforts are underway to provide food, shelter, and medical aid to the victims of the disaster.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the flooding in Maiduguri, which began over the weekend and intensified in the early hours of Monday, September 9, 2024, was caused by excess water from the Alau Dam. A collapse of one of the dam’s spillways significantly increased water flow downstream, worsening the flooding in nearby areas.
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The affected areas include Shehuri, parts of the Government Residential Area (G.R.A.), Gambomi, Budum, Bulabulin, Adamkolo, Millionaires Quarters, Monday Market, and Gwange.
NEMA reported that the Borno State Government has opened Bakassi Camp to house those displaced by the flood. “We are working in conjunction with the Borno State Emergency Management Agency to provide humanitarian support to those in the camp,” the statement noted.
This response follows an order from President Tinubu, who has expressed deep concern over the disaster. In a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu extended his condolences to the affected families and the people of Borno State, acknowledging the severe impact on lives and livelihoods.
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Channels Television reported significant losses due to the floods, including the closure of businesses and schools. Major roads, houses, and shops in Maiduguri and parts of Jere Local Government Area have been submerged. Public infrastructure such as the Shehu’s Palace, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo have also been affected.
A prison wall along the Custom area was breached by floodwaters, leading to the drowning of some inmates and the escape of others. Major roads, including the Post-Office Roundabout, are inundated, disrupting vehicular movement across the city.
Communities such as Abbaganaram, Custom Road, Tashan Bama, Monday Market, Gamboru Market, and others have been severely impacted. The Sanda Kyarimi Zoo Park has also been hit hard, with 80% of its animals reportedly killed by the flooding and the rest fleeing into the city.
Thousands of residents, particularly women and children, have been displaced, with many taking refuge under trees and in makeshift shelters along major roads as they seek safer locations within the metropolis and beyond.
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