Following a devastating flood that has ravaged Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, reports indicate that crocodiles, snakes, and other dangerous animals have taken over several areas, including the Post Office and Monday Market, located near the Shehu Kyarimi Park (Zoo).
The widespread flooding has submerged homes and critical infrastructure, forcing thousands to evacuate their belongings to safer zones.
Areas affected by the flood include parts of the University of Maiduguri and its Teaching Hospital, Gwange, Moromoro, State Low-Cost, the 500 Abbagana Housing Estate, Lagos Street, the NUJ Centre, the popular Monday Market, and even the Government House.
On Monday, the state government issued an urgent warning, advising residents to evacuate as the floodwaters rose. Schools were shut down to ensure the safety of students.
The situation escalated further on Tuesday morning when the Alau Dam, which had been filling up due to heavy rains, finally collapsed.
State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, had earlier raised the alarm, urging residents along the riverbanks to take immediate action.
“Due to the unusually high volume of water this year, we urge all residents living along the riverbank to take immediate action to protect themselves and their properties,” Tar said.
The flood has displaced thousands of people and caused billions of naira in property damage.
Residents were seen fleeing to safer areas like Bulumkutu, Gomari Airport, and Tashan Baga, calling for urgent assistance from the government.
Amidst the crisis, both Governor Babagana Zulum and his deputy, Umar Kadafur, are out of the country, leaving the state in a precarious position as it battles this natural disaster.
The Borno State Police Command has also issued a warning, urging residents to remain vigilant. Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, assured the public that law enforcement agencies are working to protect lives and property, particularly as dangerous animals like crocodiles and snakes have been displaced from their habitats by the floodwaters.
With no clear end in sight to the flooding, residents continue to appeal for immediate government intervention to mitigate the damage and provide relief for the affected areas.