FLOOD: Shettima Departs For Borno As Tinubu Orders Evacuation Of Residents
President Bola Tinubu has expressed concern over the devastating flood that has ravaged Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, and ordered immediate evacuation of residents.
In what has been described as the worst flood in recent times, thousands of residents were displaced while critical facilities like the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, a section of government house, and the post office were severely affected.
THE WHISTLER reported that the flood, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam, hit Maiduguri in the early hours of Tuesday.
The dam, which had been at full capacity for a week, caused severe flooding, as several areas of the city including the Emir’s palace were submerged.
Wild animals, including snakes, crocodiles and ostriches, were flooded out of their enclosures at the state zoo and into the streets. The places severely affected include Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, and Bulabulin, where homes were swept away, and streets became rivers.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to expedite the evacuation and provide assistance to those displaced.
He further reassured Governor Babagana Umara Zulum that the Federal Government is ready to mobilize resources to meet the immediate humanitarian needs in the region.
The statement read, “The worst flood in recent decades has displaced thousands of residents and affected facilities such as the Post office and the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
“President Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the State, especially to the families that have lost their means of livelihood due to the disaster triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam.
“While relevant authorities are still assessing the damage wrought by the flood, the President calls for the immediate evacuation of people from affected areas.
“President Tinubu assures Governor Babagana Umara Zulum that the Federal Government is ready to collaborate to address the immediate humanitarian needs of the affected people.
“He orders the National Emergency Management Agency to assist the flood victims.”
However, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to providing federal support to help the people of Borno recover.
Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed the FCT en route to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, for an on-the-spot assessment of the floods.
During his visit, the Vice President will assess the extent of the damage, interact with the displaced residents, and oversee the ongoing relief efforts.
“He will also hold meetings with state and local government officials to coordinate a comprehensive response plan,” said Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in VP’s office.
