Residents of Maiduguri are cautiously returning to their homes as floodwaters from the Alau Dam continue to recede gradually.
Many of those displaced by the flooding, which began on Monday night, are now assessing the damage and salvaging what remains of their property.
Ali Bana from Gwange Ward shared his concern, saying, “we are rushing to see what is left of our homes and to salvage any remnants of our property we can still use.” Musa Abdullahi from Gomari Ward reported ongoing challenges, “my house is still flooded. From the looks of things, we have more days to spend outside before we can move back in.”
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has reported that over 239,000 people have been affected by the floods. The disaster has driven many to seek refuge in the Muna IDP camp, which was already hosting more than 50,000 displaced persons before the floods. Government authorities have evacuated residents from high-risk riverine areas to safer locations.
READ ALSO : Maiduguri flood sacks Shehu of Borno from palace
The flooding has also disrupted communication, power, and water supply across much of Maiduguri. Notably, areas such as Post Office, Monday Market, Shehu Kyarimi Park and the University of Maiduguri, including its Teaching Hospital, have been heavily submerged. Crocodiles, snakes, and other dangerous wildlife have reportedly overrun these areas, exacerbating the crisis.
The devastation has prompted a significant response from national leaders. President Bola Tinubu has called for the immediate evacuation of flood-affected areas and pledged Federal Government support. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who conducted an on-the-spot assessment, described the floods as the most severe in over thirty years for Maiduguri.
The Federal Government has also taken steps to address the impact on the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Maiduguri. According to Abubakar Umar, spokesperson for the Nigerian Prisons, efforts are underway to securely transfer inmates from the flooded facility. Umar assured the public that the prison is working closely with security and relevant agencies to manage the situation and ensure public safety.
As the situation evolves, thousands of residents continue to evacuate their belongings to safer areas such as Bulumkutu, Gomari Airport, and Tashan Baga, calling for urgent government assistance to address their dire needs.
Credible News.ng
