Riverine communities, along rivers Niger and Benue, have been advised to be on alert as catastrophic flood has swept through Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, following the collapse of the Alau Dam early Tuesday morning.
The dam, which had been at full capacity for the past week, gave way, unleashing torrents of water onto the city.
The flood has severely impacted several neighborhoods, including Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, and Bulabulin. Residents in these areas have been forced to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge on higher ground as the waters rise. Videos that have surfaced on social media platforms have shown streets submerged, with many fleeing to escape the deluge.
The situation has been exacerbated by the release of wild animals from the state zoo, which were displaced by the floodwaters. Snakes, crocodiles, and ostriches have reportedly been seen roaming the streets, adding to the chaos and danger for residents.
Usman Tar, Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, issued a flood alert on Tuesday, advising immediate evacuation for those living along riverbanks.
Tar emphasised the urgency of the situation, urging residents to follow designated evacuation routes for their safety.
“Due to the unusually high volume of water this year, we urge all the residents living along the river bank to take immediate action to protect themselves and their properties. The Alau Dam water has breached another channel, causing further destruction to farms and threatening to inundate additional areas.”
The current flood crisis recalls a similar disaster in 1994 when the Alau Dam collapse led to widespread devastation, with nearly half of Maiduguri submerged. The ongoing situation remains critical, with emergency services and local authorities working to manage the impact and provide aid to those affected.
Meanwhile, it is advisable that riverine communities like Anambra West and others get fully prepared as the flood heads southwards.
