The collapse and overflow of the Alau Dam, located about 10 kilometers from Maiduguri, has left thousands of residents displaced and stranded in Borno State’s capital and parts of Jere Local Government Area.
Despite earlier reassurances from the state government, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijjani, the flooding has worsened since Monday evening.
Tijjani’s delegation had visited the dam site, assuring residents that there was no cause for alarm and that preventive measures would be taken to avert disaster.
However, the flooding has intensified in several areas of Maiduguri, including the Shehu’s Palace, Monday Market, Post Office area, Gwange, Moromoro Customs Bridge, Zoo, and Bulabullin, leaving many residents struggling to cope.
In Yobe State, the floods have cut off 12 local government areas from the capital, Damaturu, with only Nangere, Potiskum, Fika, Fune, and Gujba remaining accessible.
The affected areas, including Nguru, Jakusco, Gashua, and Gaidam, are now isolated as the flooding has destroyed crucial infrastructure such as bridges, roads, homes, and properties worth billions of naira.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Borno State Command, ASP Kenneth Daso, issued a statement on Tuesday advising residents to avoid flood-prone routes and stay in safe areas. He assured the public that the police and other government agencies are working to safeguard lives and property.
