“Maiduguri Flood Crisis: Ndume Reports Some Residents Still Trapped”

Babatunji Wusu –

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South senatorial district, has urgently appealed to the federal government to undertake immediate dredging operations in communities affected by recent severe flooding in Borno State. This call for action aims to facilitate the removal of standing water and assist in rescuing residents who remain trapped in their homes.

In a statement issued on Monday, Ndume underscored the dire situation, noting that many residents are still stranded despite the extensive damage caused by the flooding. The crisis worsened in Maiduguri, the state capital, following the collapse of the Alau Dam last Tuesday. The dam failure resulted in severe flooding, which led to fatalities, displacements, and the submergence of homes and agricultural land.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has responded to the disaster by approving a ₦3 billion intervention fund to help mitigate the effects of the flooding. Despite this financial support, Ndume emphasized that urgent dredging of the affected areas is critical to improving rescue efforts and alleviating the suffering of those still trapped.

Ndume, who has personally contributed ₦50 million to flood victims following a collective fundraising effort by Borno South leaders, stressed the need for immediate action. He highlighted that many affected individuals have been stranded in their homes for up to six days, with the only available means of rescue being boats provided by the Nigerian military, other security agencies, and the state government.

“The federal government needs to conduct a survey, deploy dredging equipment, and clear the discharge routes of the Alau Dam to allow the water to flow out,” Ndume stated. He warned that continued exposure to water could cause further damage to already weakened structures and increase the risk of collapse.

Senator Ndume also indicated that he plans to propose a motion for the federal government to intensify its response to the plight of both flood and insurgency victims, stressing the urgency of the situation as he seeks to address the crisis during the legislative recess.