BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, JULY 30, 2025 | 03:24 PM
Following a torrential downpour that swept through several parts of Maiduguri on Wednesday, the Borno State Police Command has deployed personnel to assess affected areas and maintain law and order.
The heavy rain, which began in the early hours, led to flooding in neighborhoods including Gomari, Bulumkutu, Jidari, ITE, and others, causing the collapse of eight buildings.
According to a statement issued by the spokesman of the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, fortunately, no casualties were reported.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, praised the swift intervention of officers led by Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DC Garba Audu Bosso, ACP Jawi Muhammed, and divisional officers within Maiduguri metropolis.
In the statement, strategic security posts have been established to protect evacuated homes and prevent looting or other criminal activities in the affected areas.
Meanwhile, floodwaters severely impacted communities in Dala axis, Damboa Road, Polo area, and Federal Low Cost, submerging homes and cutting off access roads.
Many residents were temporarily displaced.
Residents have pointed fingers at poor waste disposal and blocked drainage systems as contributors to the scale of destruction.
Plastic waste, household refuse, and construction debris reportedly clogged channels, hindering water flow and exacerbating the flooding.
Authorities are now urging residents to remain calm, avoid flood-prone areas, and discourage children from playing in floodwaters due to safety concerns.
The police command reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and called for cooperation with ongoing emergency and environmental response efforts.
With more rainfall expected in the coming weeks, experts and citizens alike are renewing calls for improved drainage maintenance, environmental law enforcement, and increased public awareness on responsible waste disposal.
For emergency assistance or information, residents can contact the police command via 0806 807 5581 or 0802 347 3293.