BY: ABDULKADIR M LAWAN, SEPTEMBER 10, 2024/ 04:13AM
A devastating flood has forced hundreds of people out of their homes in parts of Maiduguri and Jere Local Government Areas of Borno State.
The incident, which began a few days ago, reached its peak in the early hours of Tuesday, displacing residents of Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, Bulabulin, and other communities.
Communities around the Custom area were also severely affected by the floodwaters.
According to a victim, the floodwaters overflowed the Fori bridge, which connects Fori and Galtimari to Tashan Bama, and swept through homes with incredible force.
'We were alerted to pack our belongings at 12:30 AM, but before we could gather our clothes and school credentials, the water was already waist-deep in our house,' said a resident of Galtimari.
'We had to flee to Galtimari Primary School, leaving most of our belongings behind,' the source added.
The floodwaters claimed several houses, shops, and other properties, leaving many residents with nothing.
The situation was further exacerbated when the flood forced patients and their relatives out of Nakowa Hospital along Lagos Street, putting the health and well-being of those in need of medical care at risk.
Our reporter, who visited some of the affected areas, confirmed that the floodwaters have submerged the Lagos Street Bridge, one of the largest bridges in the city.
Many residents were forced to abandon their homes and seek safety elsewhere.
Communities along the riverbanks and beyond have been severely affected, with many people relocating to higher ground.
The situation remains dire, with many residents still in need of assistance.
The government and humanitarian agencies have been urged to provide emergency aid to those affected by the flood.