Thousands of residents in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, and parts of Jere Local Government Area have been displaced following the collapse of a dyke and the overflow of Alau Dam, located about 10 kilometers from the city.
Since last week, the State Government, led by Secretary to the Government Bukar Tijjani, has been assessing the situation and assured the public that measures would be taken to mitigate the disaster. However, despite these assurances, the water flow into the city has continued unabated since Monday evening.
The flooding has affected numerous communities, including the Shehu’s palace, Monday Market, Post Office area, Gwange, Moromoro Customs Bridge, Zoo, and Bulabullin, among others.
In Yobe State, flooding has isolated Damaturu, the state capital, with only five local government areas remaining accessible: Nangere, Potiskum, Fika, Fune, and Gujba. The other 12 local government areas, including Nguru, Jakusco, Gashua, and Gaidam, are completely cut off. Flooding has destroyed bridges, roads, homes, and property worth billions of naira.
In a statement on Tuesday morning, ASP Kenneth Daso, Police Public Relations Officer for Borno State Command, advised citizens to avoid flood-affected routes and stay in safer areas. “The police and other relevant government agencies are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of lives and property,” Daso said.
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