By Joy Yesufu
History has tragically repeated itself in Borno State, as massive floods have submerged the entire Maiduguri metropolis and parts of Jere Local Council. This disaster reechoes the flooding that occurred for two weeks in September 1994 when excess water was released from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, devastating the same regions.
Forty years after on September 10, 2024, since that catastrophe, the people of Maiduguri have once again faced the destructive force of nature. A sudden surge of floodwaters, from the overflowing Alau Dam, forced thousands of residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
Many sought refuge in nearby shelters, such as empty schools in Bulumkutu, Old Airport, Bolori, Jiddari Polo, and several housing estates.
While there have been no reported loss of lives, a significant number of properties, including mud houses in affected communities, suffered severe damage as floodwaters seeped into residential areas.
In light of these disasters, the Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS) has repeatedly cautioned land developers and residents against constructing homes and structures along riverbanks.
However, communities including Fori, Moromoro, Moduganari, and Abbaganaram have established numerous homes, shopping complexes, and fuel stations alarmingly close to the River Ngadda.
Bulama Abiso, Chairman of the Civil Society Organizations, said immediate humanitarian assistance is crucial for the vulnerable flood victims, primarily women and children.
Many of these victims have sought refuge in closed Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps at Bakassi and along Dikwa Road, while others have found shelter with friends and relatives in higher upland areas.
Abiso emphasized that all displaced residents who have been living along riverbanks should be prioritized in camps and safer accommodations. He warned that the floodwaters might take two to three weeks to recede, delaying the return of displaced residents to their homes, markets, and schools.
