Parts of Maiduguri, Borno State, have been devastated by severe flooding since Monday night, with dangerous animals, including crocodiles and snakes, reportedly taking over areas such as the Post Office and Monday Market. The flooding, caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam, has submerged key locations including the Shehu’s Palace, the University of Maiduguri, and the Teaching Hospital, leaving thousands displaced and property worth billions destroyed.
In response, President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate evacuation of residents from affected areas, pledging federal support. Vice President Kashim Shettima, during an on-the-spot assessment, described the flooding as the worst the city has seen in over three decades. He assured that the federal government is prioritizing relief efforts for the displaced.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari, in a statement, called the flooding a national calamity and expressed his condolences to affected families. Similarly, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso urged the federal government to provide urgent assistance to flood victims, describing the images from Maiduguri as horrifying.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to evacuate inmates from the flooded Maiduguri Medium Security Custodial Centre, with authorities ensuring a secure transfer of prisoners to safer locations. The police and other security agencies are working to maintain order and protect the public during this difficult time.
