Borno Flood Disaster: Prisoners Escape, Schools Shut, Thousands Displaced

Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, has been faced with Severe flooding that has submetged Major roads, houses, and shops in the metropolis, and parts of the Jere Local Government Area displacing thousands and damaging critical infrastructure.
The immediate cause of the disaster has been attributed to Heavy rainfall and the overflow of the Alo Dam, which draws water from River Ngadda and Lake Chad
The effect has led to widespread devastation, affecting homes, major roads, markets, and public institutions.
The humanitarian crisis has been unfolding as the State contends with one of its worst flood disasters in recent history.
The University of Maiduguri, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Shehu’s Palace were all submerged.
The flood also broke through a prison wall in the Custom area, resulting in some inmates allegedly drowning, while others escaped. Sanda Kyarimi Zoo Park, a popular landmark, reported the loss of 80% of its animals, with the remainder escaping into the city.

Thousands of residents, predominantly women and children, have been displaced from flood-prone areas, many seeking shelter under trees along major roads.
The flood has also led to the shutdown of the University of Maiduguri and Borno State University, while local businesses and markets, including the Monday Market and Cattle Market, were severely impacted.

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate relief and evacuation for victims. He expressed deep concern and assured the state government of the Federal Government’s readiness to support the displaced and mitigate the damage caused by the flood.