*Gov Zulum orders emergency response
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By Faridat Salifu
Following the collapse of Alau dam in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, the incident has led to severe flooding across large areas of Maiduguri, submerging the Shehu of Borno’s palace, the State Secretariat, and the Nigeria Customs Service office.
Accordong to eye witnesses, the dam collapse took place early on Tuesday and its neighbourhood including the affluent Milionaires Quarters in Gamboru Ward, have been inundated, while critical infrastructure like the Lagos Bridge and Moduganari bypass bridge become impassable.
Major roads in the capital such as Zoo Road are several others were flooded, with water surging towards the College of Health Technology.
As floodwaters rise, they approach the Commissioner of Police junction via Damboa Road.
The iconic Shehu Sanda Kyarimi Park and Maiduguri Zoo have also been affected, compelling staff to evacuate to safety as wild animals, including snakes and crocodiles, escape their enclosures, causing alarm among residents who are desperately trying to salvage their belongings.
Comparisons have been drawn between this disaster and the devastating floods of 1994, with many residents fearing that the current situation could have far-reaching effects similar to those of decades past.
A resident, Faridat Muktar, who witnessed the flow of water on major roads laments and said, “ This is the worst flood in our history.” She was more concerned and lament the local the uncertainty of safety even in areas designated for refuge.
In light of the grave humanitarian implications, Comrade Bulama Abiso, Executive Director of the Network of Civil Society Organisations in Borno State, has called for urgent aid to support the millions affected by this crisis, particularly focusing on women and children who are disproportionately impacted.
Abiso urged civil society groups and rescue organizations to act swiftly, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid that includes food, shelter, and essential supplies.
“Collective action is crucial now more than ever,” Abiso stated. “We must adhere to the core principles of humanitarian response—focusing on the well-being and dignity of those affected and ensuring equitable distribution of aid while maintaining autonomy.”
In response to the crisis, the Borno State government has reopened the Bakassi Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp to facilitate the relocation of those displaced by the flooding.
As Maiduguri grapples with this unprecedented disaster, community members are united in their pleas for divine intervention and support. “We should pray for Maiduguri,” Muktar added, expressing hope for a swift resolution.
